Joburg residents share how they’re keeping warm as temperatures drop

Mapaballo Borotho

A cold front has swept into Gauteng, bringing with it temperatures that dropped to a chilly -1°C on Friday.

As the temperatures dropped, coffee shops saw a surge in customers seeking warmth and comfort in a cup.

Earlier this week, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) warned of extremely cold temperatures expected to hit Gauteng over the weekend.

Kaya News caught up with some Johannesburg residents to see how they’re coping with the chill. As expected, coffee has become the go-to warmer for many.

“Honestly, it’s way too cold,” one resident admitted. “That’s why I got myself a cup of coffee to survive. The weather is already affecting my day, and it hurts that there’s nothing I can do except stay in my car. I feel for people who are outside right now; I’m in my car and still feeling cold – it’s crazy.”

While we’d all love to snuggle up in blankets all day, it’s a normal workday, and we can’t let the cold get the best of us. On the bright side, at least our kids don’t have to brave the chill, as today is the last day for some school.

So, how are others keeping warm?

“Today is very cold, but I’m surviving,” one resident shared. “I layered up with lots of clothes and a blanket. The type of food I eat also helps – amagwinya (fatcakes) keep me warm.”

Another resident agreed that warm beverages are key: “Drinking something warm and staying indoors is what keeps me warm. You have to drink warm drinks to stay cozy.”

If you’re still shivering, it might be time for a warm cup of coffee and some amagwinya – just the trick to defrost those frozen fingers.