Newcastillians, brace yourselves for an intense spell of severe thunderstorms forecast to hit a number of towns across KwaZulu-Natal, beginning Monday afternoon, 11 November 2024, and continuing into the early hours of Tuesday morning, 12 November 2024.
This comes as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 4 warning for Severe Thunderstorms, with impact expected from 4 pm on Monday through to 4 am on Tuesday.
SAWS has indicated that these powerful storms will bring heavy downpours, large volumes of small hail, intense lightning, and damaging winds.
In light of the significant threat posed by these storms, SAWS has cautioned residents to be prepared for various serious impacts:
- Flooding of roads, residential areas, and low-lying bridges, potentially leading to closures of certain routes and bridges.
- Falling trees obstructing major roads.
- Hazardous conditions around fast-flowing streams, presenting a risk to life.
- Extensive lightning, posing a danger to both humans and livestock.
Towns expected to be impacted by these severe weather conditions include:
- Newcastle
- Ladysmith
- Dannhauser
- Underberg
- Utrecht
- Dundee
- Estcourt
- Mooi River
- Msinga
- Okhhalhamba
- uMngeni
- Kokstad
- Indaka
- Umzimkhulu
Furthermore, SAWS has strongly advised residents in affected areas to exercise extreme caution, particularly near bridges and low-lying roads, which may be susceptible to flooding and potential sinkholes. Travelling in these areas should be avoided if possible.
Residents are further encouraged to avoid outdoor activities during the storms due to the high risk posed by lightning, hail, and potential flooding, which could result in serious injuries or fatalities. The weather service also recommends staying indoors and away from windows, while taking steps to protect pets, livestock, and vehicles from the adverse weather.
As various KZN communities prepare for this challenging weather event, what are your thoughts on the above? Share your views in the comment section below.
