The Port Elizabeth office of the South African Weather Service on Tuesday warned the public of a WhatsApp message (see below) that it said was doing the rounds, when it’s actually FAKE NEWS.
“Firstly, Disaster Management has not called an emergency meeting,” said Garth Sampson Client Liaison Officer (Eastern Cape Region).
“Secondly, one would NEVER get snow in South Africa in March.
“Thirdly, forecasts and impact-based advisories are issued by the South African Weather Service and NOT the National Weather Service (there is NO such institution in South Africa).
“Finally, according to the Port Elizabeth forecast desk, SAWS has not issued any such warning.”
Sampson also warned that it is a CRIMINAL offence to distribute false weather warnings and advisories.
“Only SAWS is allowed to do that,” he said.
“We are expecting showers and thundershowers over the next few days but nothing near what is stated in the FAKE MAIL.”
The Fake Weather Forecast below:
Disaster Management Services called all concerned services to an Emergency meeting regarding weather predictions for the Weekend.
Warnings were issued for this coming weekend:
1. Light rain is forecast as from today Wednesday over the entire Cacadu region which will further saturate the already saturated ground.
2. Minimum temperatures are to plummet to below freezing point inland as from Thursday evening and Heavy Snow Falls are expected with Road closures in all mountain passes in the region except for Olifantskop pass.
3. Heavy Rain (100%) is expected as from Thursday evening in Storms River area to reach Port Elizabeth by Friday Noon and spread further east as it progresses. An average of 100mm is expected from Friday Noon to Saturday evening throughout the region of Cacadu. Due to the already saturated groundwater flash flooding is expected in low laying areas. Roads are expected to be water logged and special care be given to fast lanes were vehicles could aquaplane.
4. These systems will also affect all outdoor activities in the region such as the Biltong Festival in Somerset East and the VW Algoa Rally being held in the Port Elizabeth, Uitenhage and surrounding areas.