South Africa Sees First Major November Snowfall in 85 Years Amid Rising Concerns Over Climate Change

South Africa experienced an unexpected and historic snowfall this week, marking its first major November snowfall in 85 years. The rare event, which saw parts of the Eastern Cape province blanketed in white, comes as the country typically enters its summer season, a time associated with warmer temperatures rather than winter-like conditions. According to the South African Weather Service, this unusual occurrence is sparking questions about climate change’s role in the increasingly erratic weather patterns across the country.

The recent snowstorm follows another significant snowfall in neighboring KwaZulu-Natal province less than two months ago, which had severe repercussions. That storm temporarily shut down a major highway linking the country’s largest port city, Durban, to Johannesburg, its industrial hub. Tragically, at least one person lost their life during that storm, highlighting the serious risks associated with these unexpected weather patterns.

What Caused the Unseasonable Snow?

Weather experts are attributing this week’s snowfall to a meteorological phenomenon known as a “cut-off low.” This is a low-pressure system that can pull in cold air, leading to heavy rain and snow under the right conditions. Lehlohonolo Thobela, a forecaster with the South African Weather Service, explained the occurrence, stating, “The frequency of these systems appears to be increasing, especially in spring. Could it be climate change, or perhaps climate variability? They do occur from time to time.”

The snowfall was intense enough that authorities considered closing several mountain passes due to hazardous conditions. The National Weather Service advised residents to avoid these areas and stay updated on changing forecasts, as the unusual weather raised safety concerns in regions ill-prepared for snow.

Snow in Africa? More Common Than You Might Think

Though snow is rare on the African continent, it does occur in specific regions with higher elevations and colder climates. South Africa, with its diverse geography, is actually among the African countries most likely to experience snow, particularly in mountainous areas. Other African nations like Lesotho, Morocco, Algeria, and Ethiopia also receive snowfall in certain regions, typically at high altitudes.

This diversity of climates within Africa, spanning everything from vast deserts to lush rainforests and highland regions, contributes to the variety in weather patterns across the continent. Snowfall, however, is typically restricted to the coldest, highest areas, making this November snowfall particularly striking.

Is Climate Change the Cause?

South Africa’s recent snowfalls are fueling questions about climate change and its effects on global weather patterns. Scientists have warned that a warming climate could lead to more extreme and erratic weather events worldwide, including unusually severe storms and unseasonable snowfall in unexpected regions. While it is challenging to link any single weather event directly to climate change, the increasing frequency of these phenomena in South Africa has raised alarms.

Thobela and other experts at the South African Weather Service are closely monitoring these shifts, noting that such events could become more common. “Could it be climate change, or perhaps climate variability?” Thobela pondered, underscoring the uncertainties that climate scientists are exploring globally.

For now, South Africans are adjusting to the unusual sight of snow as summer approaches, reflecting a broader trend of shifting weather patterns that may become the new normal, both in Africa and worldwide.