Eastern Cape storms and hail on Monday: Level 2 warning from 8am
SAWS has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms in the eastern half of the Eastern Cape on Monday, 26 October, with hail, strong winds and flooding possible in the north-east.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms in the eastern half of the Eastern Cape on Monday, 26 October. It runs from 8am until 8:59pm (SAWS on X).
Storms in the north-east could turn severe, with heavy downpours, strong winds and hail that could cause damage (SAWS on X).
Which parts of the Eastern Cape are affected?
The warning covers the eastern half of the province. On the SAWS warning map, the area flagged for severe storms is the north-eastern corner near the Lesotho border, including the Matatiele area (SAWS on X).
SAWS says a deepening surface trough, together with an upper-level trough, is behind the thunderstorms (The South African).
What could the storms do?
SAWS lists these possible impacts (SAWS on X; The South African):
- Localised damage to homes, property and temporary structures
- Localised flooding of roads and low-lying bridges
- Disruption to power and cellphone or communication services
- Loss of livestock and crops
- Danger to life
On the SAWS warning matrix, Level 2 means minor impacts are likely. Expect local disruption rather than widespread damage (SAWS on X).
How should you prepare?
SAWS advice, as reported by The South African:
- Stay indoors while a storm passes and keep out of open areas when there is lightning.
- Never drive or walk through a flooded road or low-water bridge, and slow down in heavy rain.
- Farmers should move livestock to safer ground where they can.
- People in informal or temporary structures should take extra care.
Check the latest warnings on the SAWS website before you travel on Monday. In an emergency, call 112 from a cellphone or 10177 for an ambulance.
FAQ
When is the Eastern Cape thunderstorm warning in effect?
The Yellow Level 2 warning runs from 8am to 8:59pm on Monday, 26 October 2026.
Which areas of the Eastern Cape are under the warning?
The eastern half of the province. SAWS says storms could become severe in the north-east, and its map flags the area near the Lesotho border, including Matatiele.
Will there be hail in the Eastern Cape on Monday?
Possibly. SAWS says some storms in the north-east could bring heavy downpours, strong winds and hail that could cause damage.
What does a Yellow Level 2 warning mean?
On the SAWS warning matrix, Level 2 means minor impacts are likely. Localised problems such as flooded roads, damage to temporary structures and power or signal disruptions are possible.