Thunderstorms forecast for multiple KZN areas

A relentless heatwave has gripped many since Friday, 1 November 2024, causing widespread discomfort under the unyielding sun. However, relief is anticipated by Monday, 4 November 2024, but it arrives with its own challenges.

A severe weather warning has been issued as Newcastillians prepare for intense thunderstorms expected to affect large areas of KwaZulu-Natal.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (KZN CoGTA) has confirmed that the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an Orange Level 5 Warning for inclement weather effective from Monday. According to the notice released by KZN CoGTA, a steep upper air trough over the western interior is generating wind disturbances throughout KwaZulu-Natal, while a surface trough is drawing in tropical moisture, setting the stage for severe thunderstorms.

The anticipated impacts of the inclement weather include:

• Localised flooding of settlements, which may lead to the displacement of affected communities.
• Danger to life from rapidly flowing river streams.
• Poor driving conditions, which could result in vehicle accidents.
• Flooding of roads and damage to bridges, likely causing road closures and disruption of traffic flow.
• Potential disruption of essential services, such as water, electricity, and communication networks.

Additionally, SAWS has issued a Yellow Level 4 Warning for Severe Thunderstorms expected to develop throughout Monday. Widespread showers and thunderstorms are anticipated across most areas of KwaZulu-Natal. Some thunderstorms could bring strong, damaging winds, excessive lightning, and heavy downpours, according to the weather service.

KZNCoGTA has indicated that the uThukela District, uMzinyathi District, Harry Gwala, Ugu, and iLembe regions are particularly vulnerable to the adverse weather patterns.

“These conditions are likely to cause disruptions, including falling trees blocking major roads, power surges disrupting services, danger to life (both human and livestock) due to excessive lightning, and damage to structures from hail and wind,” explained KZNCoGTA.

As thunderstorms approach, residents in affected areas are advised to exercise caution, especially when travelling on bridges and roads in low-lying areas, which may be prone to flooding and potential sinkholes. The weather service has also strongly recommended avoiding outdoor activities during this period due to the risk of lightning, hail, and flooding, which could lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

Moreover, SAWS has urged residents to stay indoors and away from windows during the storms, ensuring that pets, livestock, and vehicles are secured in safe, sheltered areas.

The towns and cities expected to face the Level 4 thunderstorms include:

• Ladysmith
• Underberg
• Estcourt
• Kokstad
• Mooi River
• eThekwini
• Bergville
• Pietermaritzburg
• Richmond
• Impendle
• Indaka
• KwaDukuza
• Ndwedwe

UPDATED at 5.20 pm: SAWS has issued a level 4 alert for severe thunderstorms, warning of potential danger across Newcastle, Ladysmith, Dannhauser, Dundee, Utrecht, Nquthu, and several other towns.

MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi, is urging all residents to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this period, as the impending weather conditions pose significant risks to human life.

Furthermore, KZNCoGTA has emphasised that Disaster Management Teams will be closely monitoring the weather, especially in areas known for weather-related incidents.

With severe thunderstorms expected to affect large parts of KwaZulu-Natal, what are your thoughts on these impending conditions? Share your views in the comments section below.