False Cyclone Warning Sparks Panic in Cape Town

A false warning circulating on social media regarding an approaching cyclone has ignited unnecessary panic among residents of Cape Town. The misleading message appears to have stemmed from a modern cold front being inaccurately labeled as a cyclone, causing confusion and concern.

Contrary to the alarming rumors, the current weather phenomenon experienced in Cape Town is primarily an extremely potent cold front, clarified Vox Weather meteorologist Annette Botha. Botha emphasized that the term ‘cyclone’ typically indicates sustained winds exceeding 115km/h, a quality not present in the current weather system.

Botha highlighted the substantial disparity between a tropical cyclone and a mid-latitude system. While they share a low-pressure system as their point of origin, the two weather patterns diverge significantly in their formation, characteristics, and impact.

The expert meteorologist reiterated that the cyclone aspect does not affect South Africa; instead, it is the frontal portion of the system that influences the weather conditions in the region.