The South African Weather Service has issued a warning of a heatwave expected across parts of the Eastern Cape, while very hot conditions are expected in parts of the Northern Cape.

South Africa's most renowned national reserve has shut its gates amid escalating floodwaters and heavy rainfall, which has already claimed at least 19 lives.

The SAWS has issued an orange Level 9 warning as persistent heavy rainfall continues to cause widespread disruption in Limpopo.

The SAWS issues a Red Level 10 alert for severe floods in Limpopo and Mpumalanga, forecasting up to 200mm rain. Life-threatening conditions arise.

Disruptive rain leading to flooding is expected to continue in parts of Limpopo, where major roads may be affected and may increase travel times, according to the South African Weather Service.

A low-pressure system is expected to influence weather conditions over the north-eastern parts of the country, bringing significant rain and thunderstorms over the coming days, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) said.

The South African Weather Service says more rain is expected in the lower-lying parts of Mpumalanga over the next two days. The province has experienced heavy flooding due to persistent rainfall. Authorities have confirmed that the death toll has risen to 19 following the discovery of the body of a person who had been missing for more than a month.

Heavy rains leave nine dead in Limpopo, damage homes, schools, and bridges, as SANDF and officials rescue stranded residents.

South Africans can expect a mix of warm to hot conditions and scattered showers this week, with specific forecasts for major cities and warnings for disruptive rainfall in Limpopo.

Low rainfall in the province last winter has already led to increased water demand in the region, with current dam levels lower than they were at this time last year.