By Alani Janeke
The South African Weather Service’s seasonal forecast for autumn indicates that regions in the eastern, northern and central parts of the country may experience above-normal rainfall.
For the next week, from 11 to 17 March 2025, the South African Weather Service expects significant rainfall across much of the country. A map issued on 5 March 2025 shows forecast rainfall amounts ranging from 20mm to 125mm over large areas. Off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal, rainfall could reach 200mm or more over the sea.
The seasonal forecast for autumn further indicates above-normal rainfall in the eastern, northern and central regions of the country. This trend may continue over KwaZulu-Natal during the winter months.
For March, April and May, the weather service expects above-normal rainfall, particularly in the central and eastern parts of the country, whereas below-normal rainfall is anticipated in the western regions and the winter rainfall region.
For May, June and July, below-normal rainfall is forecast across most of the country, except in KwaZulu-Natal, where above-normal rainfall is expected.
Independent agricultural meteorologist Johan van den Berg has also forecast that the upcoming rainy season in the winter rainfall region may be drier than the past three winters.
