Johannesburg – Gauteng is in the grip of a severe winter spell, with snow flurries, icy rain, strong winds and freezing temperatures expected to persist across parts of the province as a rare weather system remains over the interior.
Gauteng Weather has warned that the cold snap is intensifying, with Johannesburg temperatures expected to remain in single digits before gradually warming towards Friday.
🚨❄️Snow in Joburg: Rare Flurries Turn the Highveld White as Cut-Off Low Freezes Gauteng
Johannesburg woke up to a sight most residents only see in photos or old stories — real snow❄️❄️❄️On Tuesday, 11 August 2026, a stubborn cut-off low locked itself over the interior and… pic.twitter.com/m5begejINl
— RaiZel (@landbourainier) August 12, 2026
Pretoria is forecast to be slightly warmer.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has also warned motorists about hazardous road conditions caused by persistent rain. Wet roads can reduce tyre grip, increase stopping distances and raise the risk of skidding or hydroplaning.
WATCH: Wits’ Professor Jennifer Fitchett explains cold, rain and snowy conditions in South Africa and Johannesburg.
Link: https://t.co/8wZtvU57Cp #WitsForGood #Weather #SAWeather pic.twitter.com/aJ7t1CHhdp
— Wits University (@WitsUniversity) August 11, 2026
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla urged motorists to slow down, increase following distances, use dipped headlights and avoid sudden braking or sharp steering. Drivers were also warned against crossing flooded roads and bridges.
#YNews: @JoburgMPD has urged road users to exercise caution as wet weather conditions persist across the province, leaving roads damp, slippery and hazardous.
JMPD says officers have been deployed along major routes and freeways to help manage traffic flow. pic.twitter.com/D24LtacqPk
— Y (@Yfm) August 11, 2026
“We appeal to every motorist to take extra personal care, slow down, leave earlier for your destination, and stay safe on the roads today,” Fihla said.
The adverse weather is expected to continue for the rest of the week, with residents and road users urged to monitor weather updates and take precautions.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
