Gauteng experienced its first cold snap this weekend as the country prepares for the coming of winter.
The South African Weather Service (Saws) has dismissed reports of a looming doomsday cold front across the country.
The misleading reports come after Gauteng experienced its first cold snap this weekend, and as the country prepares for winter.
Aphelion phenomenon
The weather service said a “hoax message” has been making rounds on various social media platforms claiming that there will be a cold spell countrywide, due to the Aphelion phenomenon, until the month of August 2025.
By definition, Aphelion is the point in Earth’s orbit furthest from the Sun. According to research, it is expected to occur on July 3rd at 3:54pm.
“It is important that we emphasise that the distance variation does not significantly impact temperatures or seasons in South Africa,” assured meteorologist Lehlohonolo Thobela.
Thobela said reports of the Aphelion phenomenon about to hit the country are ” false and misleading.”
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Fake news
Thobela said seasons are determined by the Earth’s axial tilt, not its distance from the Sun.
“As such, we plead with the public not to circulate misleading information. According to our seasonal climate watch, issued on the 2nd of May 2025, minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be above normal for most parts of the country during the winter season, above normal meaning that the temperatures are expected to be warmer than what we would get during our winter months.
“The Republic of South Africa will continue to be affected by different winter weather systems that are known to drop temperatures, like the cold fronts and cut-off lows.
“In addition, the southern coastal regions are expected to have below normal temperatures for the remainder of the winter period,” Thobela said.
El-Nino
Thobela added that the El Niño—Southern Oscillation (ENSO) returned to a neutral state and is predicted to remain there for the foreseeable future.
“It is important to note that ENSO has limited influence on South Africa during the winter season and is not expected to have a significant impact.
“However, as winter begins, the focus is over the south-western parts of the country, as well as along the east and south coastal regions. These areas are expected to receive below-normal rainfall early, mid- and late winter,” Thobela said.
The weather service said it will continue to monitor any further developments relating to the weather systems and will issue subsequent updates as required.
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