JOHANNESBURG - A cold front is expected to sweep across parts of South Africa next week, bringing a sharp drop in temperatures and rain.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that a cold front will make landfall over the southwestern parts of the country on Wednesday before moving eastwards.
The Western Cape, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal are expected to bear the brunt of the cold spell, with further rainfall forecast along coastal areas into the weekend.
“A ridging high-pressure system behind the cold front will allow a colder air mass to spread across much of the country, resulting in a noticeable drop in temperatures,” said SAWS forecaster Amukelani Mkhari.
Ahead of the cold snap, the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) is urging pet owners to take extra precautions, warning that freezing temperatures can quickly become life-threatening for animals left without adequate shelter.
The NSPCA says distressed animals are often found shivering in exposed or unsuitable conditions during winter, while pets in wet or flooded areas are especially vulnerable. Where possible, dogs and cats should be brought indoors.
For pets that must remain outside, the organisation says kennels should be waterproof, insulated, raised off the ground and positioned away from wind and rain.
The organisation is also calling on South Africans to report any animals in distress to their nearest SPCA, saying simple steps can make the difference between life and death during severe winter weather.