South Africans are already experiencing the effects of an exceptionally strong El Niño, with forecasts warning of below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures over much of the country during the 2026/27 season. However, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has cautioned that El Niño does not automatically result in drought and that rainfall outcomes can vary considerably between events.
While media attention has largely and rightly, focused on the wider implications for water security and agriculture, one area South Africans may not immediately consider is what a hotter, drier and potentially more volatile summer could mean for their cars and homes.
“Long periods of heat and dry weather can place additional strain on vehicles and properties, while a sudden severe storm can cause significant damage in a matter of minutes,” warns Sherry Sibeko, Executive Head of Personal Lines at Miway Insurance. “The important thing is to understand where your vulnerabilities are and address what you can before conditions become extreme.”
For motorists, this means checking tyres regularly for wear, damage and correct pressure, and ensuring cooling systems, coolant levels and batteries are in good condition. Drivers should pay attention to warning lights and rising engine temperatures rather than continuing to drive an overheating vehicle.
“The temptation can be to think that if there is less rain, there is less weather-related risk,” says Sibeko. “In reality, the nature of the risk can simply change. Prevention comes down to keeping your vehicle well maintained and dealing with any wear and tear before harsher conditions expose them.”
The same is true for homeowners, she adds. “Periods of very dry weather can also affect soil conditions, potentially contributing to ground movement that can expose existing weaknesses in buildings. In addition to checking for building wear and tear, clearing dry vegetation and combustible material from close to buildings can help reduce fire exposure.”
Despite a drier seasonal outlook, Sibeko echoes SAWS’ warning that localised thunderstorms can still bring hail, lightning and flash flooding, creating risks at both home and on the road.
“Property owners should ensure gutters and drains are kept clear so that heavy downpours can drain away efficiently. Roof tiles, waterproofing and other potential points of water entry should also be checked before storm damage exposes existing maintenance problems,” she says.
“For drivers, sudden heavy rain can reduce visibility and make roads hazardous, while hail and flooding can cause extensive vehicle damage,” she explains. “Motorists shouldn’t attempt driving through floodwater and, where severe weather is forecast, remember to move vehicles to protected areas.”
SAWS itself has urged the public to follow its monthly seasonal updates and daily short-term forecasts to stay prepared as the El Niño develops.
Sibeko adds that this preparation should also include checking insurance policies before severe weather strikes. “Seasonal forecasts give us an opportunity to prepare, but weather can still be unpredictable at a local level.
“So, know what your policy covers, make sure the insured values and information are up to date, and understand the excesses that would apply if you need to claim. You cannot control the weather, but you can make sure that your vehicle, home and insurance cover are ready for it,” she concludes.
