South Africa Experiences First November Snow in 85 Years
TLDR
- South Africa experiences rare November snowfall after 85 years, with unseasonal snow blanketing parts of Eastern Cape province.
- Authorities consider closing mountain passes due to hazardous conditions caused by the "cut-off low" weather system.
- The increasing frequency of cut-off lows in spring raises speculation about climate change impact on South Africa's shifting weather patterns.
South Africa recorded its first significant snowfall in November in 85 years, surprising residents as the country heads into summer. The unseasonal snow blanketed parts of the Eastern Cape province, following severe September snowfalls in neighboring KwaZulu-Natal that disrupted transport and led to a fatality.
The rare November snowfall resulted from a "cut-off low" — a low-pressure system bringing cold air, heavy rainfall, and snow, according to Lehlohonolo Thobela of the South African Weather Service. Authorities considered closing mountain passes due to hazardous conditions.
The frequency of cut-off lows has been rising, particularly in spring, leading to speculation about links to climate change. Thobela noted that while such weather events are not new, their increasing occurrence raises questions about shifting climate patterns in South Africa.
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Key Takeaways
South Africa’s unusual November snowfall highlights the growing unpredictability of weather patterns in the region. While cut-off low-pressure systems occasionally occur, their frequency in spring may suggest broader climate changes, a trend being observed globally. Unseasonal weather events, including cold spells and heavy rains, increasingly affect infrastructure, agriculture, and daily life in South Africa. The recent weather disruptions come as the country grapples with other climate-related challenges, such as droughts and extreme heat. This rare snowfall underscores the need for climate resilience strategies to better prepare for the potential impacts of both extreme cold and heat, which can strain resources and affect critical sectors.
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