The South African Weather Service (SAWS) expects cold to very cold, wet and windy conditions across parts of the Northern Cape and Western Cape on Friday as a cut-off low-pressure system moves over the country’s western interior.

SAWS said the system would produce a sharp change in weather conditions across several provinces. High-lying areas could record maximum temperatures below 10°C, while rainfall in parts of the Western Cape may become disruptive.

The greatest flood risk is expected in the south-eastern Western Cape, including parts of the Overberg, Garden Route, Langeberg, and Laingsburg municipal areas. Roads, low-lying settlements, and bridges could be affected, with traffic disruption likely in areas receiving persistent rain.

Strong to damaging winds are forecast over the Namakwa District, the Cape Winelands, and the Central Karoo. SAWS warned that the winds could interrupt electricity, communications and other services, damage settlements, and create dangerous conditions for high-sided vehicles.

Coastal areas face additional risks. Gale-force winds are possible along the south-western and southern coastline, while waves of between 4.5 and 5.5 metres could endanger harbour operations, navigation, coastal infrastructure, and recreational activities. A Yellow Level 4 warning remains in place from Alexander Bay to Plettenberg Bay.

A lower-level warning has been issued for parts of the south coast and the eastern parts of the Eastern Cape, where localised flooding could affect roads, settlements, and bridges. Severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, hail, and lightning are also possible over the western Free State.

SAWS has urged the public to avoid flooded roads, secure loose structures, and take care near the coast.