The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has rubbished news making rounds on social platforms about a cold weather spell around the country, dubbed as “the Aphelion phenomenon” until the month of August 2025.
Lehlohonolo Thobela, Ezekiel Sebego, William Msimanga and Rudzani Malala of the SAWS Forecasting division, say the statement about the Aphelion, is both false and misleading.
“In definition, Aphelion is the point in Earth’s orbit where it is farthest from the Sun. According to research, it is expected to occur on the 3rd of July at 3:54 PM and it is important that we emphasize that the distance variation does NOT significantly impact temperatures or seasons in South Africa. The seasons are determined by the Earth’s axial tilt, not its distance from the Sun” said Thobela.
SAWS said the public should not circulate this misleading information.
In addition, this year’s temperature during the Winter season is expected to be relatively warmer.
Furthermore, the El Nino- Southern Oscillation (ENSO) has returned to a neutral state and it is predicted to remain there for the foreseeable future.
Thobela also said “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.”
Picture: Winter Problems