Latest News & Developments
weather phenomena
The South African Weather Service clears fake news about winter came early
A viral hoax claims South Africa will face a cold spell until August 2025 due to Aphelion. Discover the truth behind this myth and learn what really drives our seasons.
Understanding the Aphelion phenomenon: Debunking myths about its impact on South African winters
A viral hoax claims South Africa will face a cold spell until August 2025 due to Aphelion. Discover the truth behind this myth and learn what really drives our seasons.
'I am staying': South African teacher in Myanmar recounts his experience during deadly earthquake
After losing his girlfriend and critical documents in a devastating earthquake, South African teacher Sibonelo Myeni shares his harrowing experience and the reasons behind his decision to remain in Myanmar.
Human Rights: the key to South Africa's climate change journey
As South Africa moves towards a greener future, ensuring social and economic rights remains crucial. This analysis explores how the country can manage its energy transition while protecting vulnerable communities and upholding constitutional rights.
More heavy rain expected for remaining days of the festive season as some provinces set to experience hot conditions
On Christmas, morning drizzle is expected along the Limpopo and Mpumalanga regions with a reduced distribution of showers and thundershowers in the afternoon.
Two die after wall collapses in eThekwini due to adverse weather
The victims are a 38-year-old man and 18-year-old girl.
Tshwane floods: Two dead and multiple rescued by emergency services
Tshwane's emergency services said they rescued several patients from various incidents that occurred in different locations because of the floods in Centurion and Irene.
2024: A Year of Conflict, Climate Catastrophes, and Political Upheaval
Explore the key events of 2024, from escalating conflicts in the Middle East to unprecedented climate disasters and significant political shifts worldwide.
Heavy rain warning for most parts of South Africa until Christmas Eve
The forecaster said the six provinces will experience increased rainfall from Wednesday until December 24, 2024.
Several hundreds dead in Mayotte cyclone
Rescue services search for survivors after the most powerful cyclone in nearly a century devastated the French Indian Ocean archipelago of Mayotte.
LOOK: SA Weather confirms reports of tornado damage in Randfontein
Mop up operations continue to Gauteng’s Randfontein area after a tornado ripped through the area on Wednesday.
Spain races to save victims as floods kill 95
Floods in Sedavi, south of Valencia, eastern Spain, on October 30, triggered by torrential rains left at least 90 people dead.
Heat wave: Over 3,000 firefighters on standby for elevated fire risks this weekend
At least 3,200 firefighters, along with aerial resources and pilots, have been placed on high alert over wild fires that might occur over the weekend.
Monster Hurricane Milton makes landfall, walloping US coast of Florida
Hurricane Milton triggered tornadoes before its arrival, with unconfirmed reports of multiple fatalities after one twister struck a senior living community on Florida's east coast.
American officials warn weakening storm Helene still ‘dangerous’
A powerful hurricane was barrelling towards Florida, with officials warning of “unsurvivable” conditions and a potentially catastrophic storm surge high enough to swamp a two-story house.
Weekend wrap: Hypothermia on the N3 in KZN, snow to clear from Monday, waiters speak out on despicable working conditions, inadequate emergency protocols at airports
A look at the stories that were most read on IOL.
Two die from hypothermia after being trapped on the N3 in KZN as snow is expected to clear from Monday
The SA Weather Service said the snow has cleared but there will be some slightly cold conditions during the week.
SPCA monitoring the situation should snowy weather affect livestock and domestic animals
The SPCA said its has not received alarming reports of animals being in distress due to the freezing weather conditions in KwaZulu-Natal and Free State.
UPDATE: Most motorists stuck on the N3 in KZN have been rescued while some still remain trapped trapped in snow
Motorists travelling in the Free State who were possibly still trapped in the snow were on Sunday, urged to remain in the vehicles and wait for assistance.
Snow in KZN: Rescue missions still under way for motorists stuck on the N3 as graders battle with heavy snow
The KZN MEC for Transport and Human Settlements said even though they managed to save thousands of people, there was still a great concern about those who were still trapped.
uMngeni municipality sets up emergency centre for motorists stranded in snow, as Saws issues Level 8 warning for KZN
Cogta said multiple interventions have begun to yield results as some stranded motorists have already received support. The SA Weather Service (Saws) has issued a Level 8 warning for further disruptive snow.
PICS: KZN police deployed to provide food, warm clothes to motorists trapped in snow
At the moment, helicopters can't fly, tow trucks can't move, and alternative routes are gridlocked and blocked by substantial snowfall.
Vietnam death toll from Typhoon Yagi jumps to 59
Yagi, the most powerful typhoon to hit northern Vietnam in 30 years according to meteorologists, downed bridges, tore roofs off buildings and damaged factories after making landfall on September 7.
NSRI issues spring tide warning for coastal areas on Tuesday
The NSRI has issued a warning of higher than normal waves due to a spring tide, expected on Tuesday.
Cape Town received record-breaking rainfall in July
“The highest monthly rainfall recorded for July since comprehensive records began in 1960,” the South African Weather Service said.