There has been no rain since April, or May. Suburban lawns are the last stand against encroaching brown that will not recede until September.

Where there are untended, unclaimed stretches of veld, neglected grass is blackened by fires.

Jozi is not pretty at this time of year.

But we’re given vivid sunsets, thanks to dust- and smoked-filled skies, as a consolation prize.

And a reminder to hold on until spring.