By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS), through its Disaster Risk Reduction function, has released its latest seasonal climate outlook for the 2025/26 summer season, covering the period from December 2025 to April 2026.
The forecast comes in the wake of a year marked by devastating floods and severe storms.
The forecast indicates a transition toward a weak La Niña state, which is expected to influence rainfall and temperature patterns across the country.
La Niña is a climate phenomenon characterised by unusually cool sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, which affects global weather patterns.
“Much of the rainfall during this period will be associated with afternoon and evening thundershowers, which may at times be accompanied by heavy downpours, lightning and gusty winds,” SAWS Senior Forecaster Jacqueline Modika said on Thursday, during a media briefing in Pretoria.
“Climate model predictions suggest an increased likelihood of above-normal rainfall over the central and eastern parts of South Africa, particularly in the north-eastern summer rainfall regions, “Modika said.
These wetter-than-usual conditions are consistent with the typical impacts associated with La Niña episodes and are expected to persist into mid-to-late summer.
Modika urged vigilance and regular consultation of credible weather information.
“The public is strongly urged to take weather warnings seriously, as they play a critical role in reducing the risk of injury, loss of life or property damage,” She stressed.
She reiterated: “We wish everyone a safe, peaceful and enjoyable festive season, free from weather-related disasters, and look forward to continued cooperation in safeguarding lives and livelihoods across our country.”