Posted on 30 August 2023
The South African Weather Services (SAWS) predicts hotter-than-usual summer conditions for South Africa.
The El Niño weather phenomenon is predicted to continue throughout most of the summer months, potentially leading to drier conditions in the region. However, the full impact of El Niño on South Africa remains uncertain.
The World Meteorological Organisation warns that El Niño and other factors will result in record-breaking temperatures within the next five years.
Further, the forecast expects above-normal rainfall for most of South Africa from mid to late spring, although the Northern and Eastern Cape, which are experiencing long-term drought conditions, could continue facing water loss due to about-normal temperatures. Flood-prone regions and those lacking proper drainage systems are also at risk of flash floods.
Conversely, below-normal rainfall is expected from November to January in the North West, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, and Free State areas. SAWS recommends conservation practices in these regions.
Higher temperatures could lead to an increased demand for cooling, ‘putting pressure on our already strained power grid,’ notes News24. Similar trends were seen in the northern hemisphere, where extreme temperatures caused spikes in air conditioning demands.
Picture: Unsplash
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