Following a weekend of steady light rainfall, communities in KwaZulu-Natal now face the imminent threat of heavy downpours that could worsen existing damage. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms, signalling an escalation in weather hazards.
SAWS forecasts that this disruptive weather will affect multiple towns across the province.
Expected to begin in the early afternoon, the thunderstorms may lead to localised damage to infrastructure, vehicles, and settlements. The service also cautioned about potential road flooding, risks to life and injury from lightning, and power surges due to intense electrical activity. The towns and cities projected to be affected include:
- Newcastle
- Howick
- Ladysmith
- Utrecht
- Dundee
- Kokstad
- Dannhauser
- Estcourt
- Giants Castle
- Mooi River
- Underberg
- Indaka
- Impendle
- Ingwe
As this weather system approaches, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (KZN Cogta) reported over the weekend that the Provincial Disaster Management Centre is managing response efforts following two nights of substantial rainfall.
Mop-up operations are underway in areas such as eThekwini to address fallen trees, damaged power lines, and flooded roads, according to the department.
Moreover, KZN CoGTA emphasised that a Level 4 weather warning for disruptive rainfall remains in effect, highlighting a continued risk of flooding to roads, bridges, and low-lying areas. Disaster management teams are actively monitoring vulnerable regions. Motorists are urged to exercise caution due to hazardous driving conditions, while residents are advised to limit non-essential travel.
With severe thunderstorms poised to strike multiple communities, what are your perspectives on this unfolding situation? Share your views in the comment section below.
One Response
It’s unfortunate these rains find us off guard as if our municipality doesn’t know our area.Drains are NEVER cleaned with hazardous sewerage blockages.Small potholes NOT attended then become pool paddles when the rain strikes.WE PAY EXORBITANT AMOUNTS FOR DISSERVICE!!