Rainfall is expected to extend to the western parts of the summer rainfall region in the coming weeks, meaning conditions that could cause hail may also occur in these areas. Hail may also occur over parts of the winter rainfall region.
By Alani Janeke, senior journalist at African Farming and Landbouweekblad
Stormy conditions and hail have been frequent across the eastern and central parts of the summer rain region in recent weeks. As the area for expected rain expands to the western parts of the region in the coming weeks, the conditions for hail may also expand.
Independent agricultural meteorologist Johan van den Berg says the hail conditions may also extend to parts of the winter rain region. “A series of cold fronts, which will bring cold air over the country, could bring favourable conditions for hail, strong winds and also tornadoes when they collide with the tropical moist air from the north.”
Also read: Good chance of daily rain, more hail in December
Summer Rainfall Region
Although heavy rainfall may still occur in places, forecasts indicate the rainfall conditions are starting to weaken. Less rain is expected than what is predicted, especially over the central and western interior.
Van den Berg says a series of cold fronts could lead to the strengthening of a low-pressure system over the southwestern interior from 11 to 13 December and cause fairly widespread rain over large parts of the country as the system moves from west to east.
“Grape farmers in the Northern Cape (who are currently harvesting and need dry conditions) will be particularly affected, as fairly heavy rainfall of 20mm or more is possible, especially on Friday 12 December, while further rain is expected from Monday 15 to Wednesday 17 December.”
However, the rainfall is very good news for livestock farmers in the dry western and southern interior. Good rainfall is also expected over the Eastern Cape.
Also read: Heavy rains disrupt farmers’ plans
Winter Rainfall Region
Lighter rainfall of 10mm to 20mm could fall over the winter rain area from 12 to 18 December. Light rain could start to occur over George in the Garden Route from Tuesday 9 December.
There is also a chance of rain in the Langkloof from 9 to 18 December, with further light rainfall in the latter part of the month. Van den Berg says wet and humid conditions can cause diseases in this area. “Producers should therefore be very aware of disease pressure in their crops, such as in apple and pear orchards, and take precautions.”
Also read: Favourable summer rainfall expected until January
