Climate & Weather Watch: South Africa braces for a very strong El Niño, with the Department of Agriculture warning farmers of below-normal rainfall and high temperatures that could mean crop failures, livestock deaths, pests and disease spread, and water restrictions—urging climate-smart agriculture and soil-moisture conservation. Heat Risk: SAWS says the 2026/27 event could become the strongest in living memory, with hotter, drier conditions likely into summer and beyond. Storm Alert: A cut-off low is set to bring cold, wet, windy weather and possible severe thunderstorms to parts of the country this weekend, with risks of flooding, damaging winds, lightning and hail. Wildlife & Biodiversity: Police in North West arrested two suspects after a social media advert led to the recovery of a live Southern African python, with charges linked to protected wildlife laws. Conservation Legacy: Animal rights activist Steve Smit (“Monkey Man”) has died at 70 after decades rescuing and rehabilitating vervet monkeys. Water & Infrastructure: Nelson Mandela Bay needs nearly R1bn to tackle water losses and ageing pipes, while Joburg’s public pool crisis points to long-running neglect. Mining & Environment: Kazera’s subsidiary Whale Head Minerals received approval for a Northern Cape heavy mineral sands mining right, with commercial production targeted for early 2027.