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Rain falling on an umbrella.
The South African Weather Service has warned residents across the country to prepare for continued rainfall over the Christmas period and into the back-to-school season.
The weather service says the La Niña weather phenomenon could lead to an increased probability of above-normal rainfall this summer.
The Weather Service has briefed the media on the seasonal forecasts in Pretoria. Senior Forecaster Jackie Modika says the rainy weather is expected to persist for more than two months.
“These, rather than usual conditions, are consistent with the typical impacts associated with Lanina episodes and expected to persist to admit to late summer from the disaster risk reduction perspective, the anticipated rainfall may bring positive impacts for water resources in agriculture.”
Modika adds: “It also raises the risk of localised flooding, particularly in flood-prone areas, informal settlements, and all regions with poor draining infrastructure. Communities are therefore urged to remain vigilant, especially during periods of persistent and intense rainfall, looking ahead to the festive season.”
VIDEO | South Africans must brace themselves for a wet Christmas:
