South Africans heading to polling stations next week should prepare for a varied mix of very hot temperatures, showers and thunderstorms, according to the South African Weather Service (SAWS).
The national outlook covers the special voting period on 2 and 3 November 2026, followed by election day on 4 November. Conditions are expected to differ sharply between the western and central interior and the eastern parts of the country, with voters advised to consider the forecast when planning their journeys.
Election-day conditions will vary by region
SAWS expects election day to be mainly fine and warm to very hot across central and western South Africa. The Northern Cape, North West, Limpopo and the Lowveld of Mpumalanga may experience particularly high temperatures in the days leading up to the vote.
Eastern areas are likely to be cooler and partly cloudy. Morning drizzle may occur along the eastern Drakensberg, while isolated showers and thundershowers are possible during the afternoon. These conditions could change during the day, making timing important for people who need to travel to polling stations or return home afterwards.
| Date | Expected conditions |
|---|---|
| 2–3 November | Warm to hot in many areas, with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers in several parts of the country. |
| 4 November | Fine and warm to very hot in central and western areas; partly cloudy and cooler in the east, with possible drizzle and afternoon storms. |
Thunderstorms may affect travel
Before the official election day, similar conditions are expected to continue during the special voting days. Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers may develop over several parts of the country, with the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga among the areas that could receive more widespread afternoon rain.
Thunderstorms can bring sudden downpours, reduced visibility and wet roads. Voters should allow additional time for journeys, particularly where storms are forecast during the afternoon. Drivers should slow down on wet roads and take extra care when visibility deteriorates.
- Check the latest SAWS forecast before leaving home.
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat in areas where showers and thunderstorms are expected.
- Allow more time for travel and exercise caution on wet roads.
- Drink enough water and limit exposure to the sun in very hot areas.
El Niño adds to a warmer, drier seasonal outlook
The weather outlook comes as South Africa moves through spring, a season in which conditions can shift quickly from one day to the next. SAWS said the developing El Niño weather pattern is influencing the seasonal forecast, with some parts of the country likely to experience below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures.
“Showers and thundershowers may still occur in some areas.”
That combination means a generally warmer and drier seasonal tendency does not rule out localised storms. A location may experience high temperatures for much of the day before a short, intense thunderstorm develops later. Voters and election officials should therefore rely on short-term forecasts as well as the broader seasonal outlook.
SAWS senior forecaster Tokelo Chiloane said people should take account of the expected weather while arranging their activities. The practical risks will differ across the country: heat exposure is a concern in areas facing very hot conditions, while sudden storms may complicate afternoon travel in the east and other affected regions.
With voting taking place over several days, the forecast provides an opportunity for voters to choose safer travel times where possible. Those heading out in hot areas should stay hydrated and protect themselves from prolonged heat. In places where storms are expected, carrying suitable rain protection and monitoring official SAWS updates will be important throughout the voting period.
