Gauteng’s in the news as SA deploys troops to curb crime amid violent outbreaks; tiny, dense, gold-rich province is SA’s economic heart. #Gauteng
President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered the deployment of 550 soldiers across five provinces to combat organized crime, gang violence, and illegal mining. The move follows rising homicide rates and public concern, marking a significant escalation in efforts to restore law and order in South Africa. The deployment is set to last until March 2027.
The Western Cape and surrounding regions are facing a continued severe weather event with multiple Orange Warning levels for disruptive rainfall, possible floods, and damaging winds. Schools have already closed and transport services paused as much of the country tracks an advancing cut-off low and associated heavy rain through Tuesday.
Record‑level and near‑record May temperatures have been reported across multiple regions this week — parts of England and Russia have hit unusually high temps while the eastern US has recorded low‑90s — even as eastern Australia is facing a major rain band. Forecasts show brief, intense heat will give way to fronts or rain in most places; Australia is also seeing El Niño odds rise for winter.
Ghana has been evacuating its nationals from South Africa amid renewed anti-migrant protests and xenophobia. The government has started voluntary repatriation, with initial flights organized from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo airport and more departures planned as authorities screen and register volunteers.