Over recent weeks, KwaZulu-Natal has experienced a marked shift in weather patterns, moving between spells of intense heat and periods of heavy rain that have led to flash flooding in towns such as Newcastle. As the start of the weekend now approaches, communities in Newcastle, Ladysmith, and Vryheid can expect conditions to remain changeable.
AccuWeather’s latest three-day forecast points to a continuation of warm to very hot temperatures, with thunderstorms likely on each day across the northern interior.
The detailed outlook for each town is provided below.
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Friday, 21 November 2025
Newcastle: Warm conditions will prevail, with the temperature climbing to 27°C, while a thunderstorm is expected during the day. Overnight, temperatures will ease to 15C.
Ladysmith: Although generally comfortable at a high of 28°C, the day will remain unsettled, as a thunderstorm is likely at some stage. After dark, temperatures will fall to 15°C.
Vryheid: A mostly pleasant daytime high of 26°C, with thunderstorms forecast for both the morning and afternoon. The evening temperatures are predicted to drop to 16°C.
Saturday, 22 November 2025
Newcastle: Warmth will persist, once again reaching 30°C. By night, temperatures will drop to around 13°C.
Ladysmith: Under partly cloudy skies, heat will build further to 30°C. Overnight temperatures should settle at 15°C, and this will be accompanied by thunderstorms.
Vryheid: The day will begin with a thunderstorm and a high of 27°C, then cool to 14°C overnight.
Sunday, 23 November 2025
Newcastle: Mostly overcast skies are anticipated as temperatures rise to 27°C. In the afternoon, a heavy thunderstorm is forecast. Overnight lows will linger near 12°C.
Ladysmith: Predominantly cloudy and exceptionally hot conditions will dominate, pushing the maximum to 33°C. By evening the temperatures are forecast to drop to a much cooler 15°C, with thunderstorms predicted to take place during the night.
Vryheid: Although the daytime high of 28°C feels comparatively comfortable, an afternoon thunderstorm is expected, and scattered storms could extend into the night, with temperatures falling to 13°C.
While weather patterns can change unexpectedly, the persistent risk of heavy downpours and lightning over the next three days serves as a sharp reminder that summer storm season is now in full swing. With soils already saturated in places and drainage systems under strain, even a short burst of intense rain can quickly turn roads impassable or trigger localised flooding.
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For farmers, construction crews, event organisers, and anyone with plans outdoors, flexibility will be key this weekend. Monitoring real-time radar updates from the South African Weather Service or AccuWeather could make the difference between a safe day and a dangerous one.
As the atmosphere remains loaded with moisture and heat, Northern KwaZulu-Natal can expect this active weather pattern to linger well into the coming week—meaning vigilance, not complacency, should guide every decision until conditions finally stabilise.
Do not forget to read, Growth Through Partnership: How Newcastle’s Progress Depends On Collaboration, if you missed it.
