SNOW on the cards for Women’s Day long weekend in SA
Anyone after a cozy Women’s Day long weekend in SA is in luck. Latest weather models are eyeing a powerful cut-off low that will affect weather in almost…
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Anyone after a cozy Women’s Day long weekend in SA is in luck. Latest weather models are eyeing a powerful cut-off low that will affect weather in almost all nine provinces. The system is expected to develop between Sunday 9 August and dissipate by Tuesday 11 August. Don’t forget SA’s upcoming public holiday observed on Monday 10 August 2026.
Still five days out on the long-range forecast, cut-off lows are notoriously fickle, therefore exact snowfall distribution and intensity is likely to shift as the weekend approaches. However, snow is expected in at least five of the nine provinces. Plus, the system brings with it widespread rain, sharp temperature drops and strong winds for Women’s Day long weekend in SA …
SNOW FORECAST FOR WOMEN’S DAY LONG WEEKEND IN SA
Nevertheless, forecasters are saying this could be the ‘biggest snow event of the 2026 winter.’ And the safest bet for snow accumulation remains the Maloti-Drakensberg mountains and Lesotho border. High-lying interior regions in Gauteng and the Eastern Cape are an outside chance, says the SAWS. Here’s how the rest of the weather for the Women’s Day long weekend in SA is shaping province by province:
TEMPERATURE: Sharp drop expected as the front moves through, with daytime highs falling into the high teens.
WIND: Brisk south-westerly winds build ahead of the system, easing once it clears.
PRECIPITATION: Isolated showers possible, with an outside chance of sleet and snow over high ground.
WEATHER ADVISORIES: None issued yet. Motorists should take care when travelling over the Women’s Day long weekend in SA.
TEMPERATURE: An uncharacteristic cold snap grips the interior and Midlands, with the Drakensberg foothills bearing the brunt.
WIND: Fresh to gale-force north-easterly winds along the coast, turning cold and blustery behind the front.
PRECIPITATION: Widespread rain expected, heaviest in the south and central regions, with snow likely over the high-lying Drakensberg and Lesotho border.
WEATHER ADVISORIES: Mountain passes, including Sani Pass, carry a highest risk of closure.
TEMPERATURE: A notable dip after a mild start to August, especially inland.
WIND: Strong north-westerly winds ahead of the front, turning gale-force south-westerly once it clears .
PRECIPITATION: Rain likely province-wide, heaviest in the south-west, with a dusting of snow possible over the Cederberg and Hex River peaks.
WEATHER ADVISORIES: Coastal warnings possible for damaging waves and swells.
TEMPERATURE: Cold across the province, sharpest inland and over the escarpment bordering Lesotho for Women’s Day long weekend in SA.
WIND: North-easterly winds build ahead of the front, turning blustery and cold behind it.
PRECIPITATION: Rain expected countrywide, with the best chance of disruptive snow over the north-east near Barkly East, Lady Grey and Matatiele.
WEATHER ADVISORIES: Historically the province most prone to snow-related road closures. Check routes before travelling this weekend.
TEMPERATURE…