The South African Weather Service issued a level 9 orange warning for the Western Cape before heavy rain over the weekend. A cut-off low system intensified on Sunday, causing widespread thunderstorms and strong winds, with over 100mm of rain expected in 24 hours.
Gale-force winds were anticipated on the western coast on Monday, possibly causing storm surges. Temperatures were forecast to drop by 10-15°C below the seasonal average.
In Greece, after the devastation from Storm Daniel, the Hellenic National Meteorological Service warned of more heavy rain expected this week. Rain was forecast to start on Monday, with the heaviest downpours on Wednesday, affecting western, central, and northern regions.
South Africa, Greece, and Australia Brace for Severe Weather Conditions and Their ConsequencesThis could lead to localized flooding and landslides. The region experienced high temperatures over the weekend, peaking in the high 30°C range.
Eastern Australia has faced heatwaves in recent weeks as it transitions into spring. A high-pressure area traps warm air, causing temperatures to soar. Average maximum temperatures for this time of year are about 20°C, but many locations exceeded 30°C for several consecutive days.
Some areas recorded temperatures up to 18°C above average, with several September records broken, including 36°C at Sydney Airport. Observatory Hill in Sydney matched its previous September record with 34.6°C.
As a result, there is a significant risk of wildfires across southeastern states, with about 70 wildfires reported in New South Wales alone.
Although temperatures have returned to normal in eastern states, Western Australia is expected to experience high temperatures in the mid-to-high 30°C range in the coming days, with Perth anticipated to reach temperatures about 10°C above the seasonal norm.