Severe Weather Alert: KZN Braces for Storms, Floods, and Snowfall

KwaZulu-Natal is bracing for a period of inclement weather, with Disaster Management Teams placed on an elevated state of alert. This follows a statement from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (KZNCoGTA), confirming that the Provincial Disaster Management Centre is monitoring the evolving weather conditions set to impact significant portions of the province.

Severe thunderstorms are forecast to develop along the KwaZulu-Natal south coast and extend across the eastern and southern regions of the province from Monday, 9 June 2025.

As explained by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), these meteorological events may deliver intense downpours, potentially leading to localised flooding, the precipitation of large hail or substantial quantities of smaller hailstones, and damaging winds. 

Anticipated consequences include localised damage to critical infrastructure and residential settlements, damage of vulnerable roads and bridges, minor vehicular accidents owing to compromised road traction and reduced visibility, challenging driving conditions on unpaved thoroughfares, and structural damage to mud-based dwellings in affected areas.

Areas expected to be impacted by the storms:

• uMhlathuze
• Underberg
• Big Five Hlabisa
• eThekwini
• Greater Kokstad
• Impendle
• Ingwe
• Inkosi Langalibalele
• Sobabili
• Jozini
• KwaDukuza
• Mandeni
• Maphumulo
• Mkhambathini
• Mpofana (Giants Castle and Mooi River)
• Mthonjaneni
• Mtubatuba
• Ndwedwe
• Nkandla
• Nongoma
• Okhahlamba
• Ray Nkonyeni
• Richmond
• Msunduzi
• Ubuhlebezwe
• Ulundi
• Umdoni
• Umhlabuyalingana

Taking this into consideration, caution is urged, or travel on bridges and roads in low-lying areas should be avoided due to potential flooding and sinkholes. Outdoor activities should be suspended as lightning, hail, and floodwaters present significant hazards, potentially leading to injuries and fatalities. Where feasible, remaining indoors, well clear of windows, is advised; pets should be sheltered, and vehicles covered. Livestock and vehicles should be relocated to safe, sheltered environments to mitigate the threat posed by airborne debris.

Furthermore, SAWS has issued a Level 4 alert specifically for damaging winds and waves along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline, impacting areas such as Big Five Hlabisa, eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Mfolozi, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni, and uMlalazi.

Additionally, damaging winds are projected to affect the coastal stretch between Port Edward and Kosi Bay from mid-morning on Tuesday, 10 June 2025, extending until Wednesday evening, 11 June 2025. These conditions could precipitate substantial sand accumulation on coastal routes, disrupt port operations and small harbours, and pose a credible risk of vessels dragging anchor or experiencing the failure of mooring lines for medium to large craft.

Furthermore, as per SAWS, navigation may be severely impeded, with a particular concern for potential damage to overhead power lines resulting from falling trees. Concurrently, damaging waves, estimated to range between 4.5 and 6.0 metres in height, are anticipated from Tuesday afternoon until early Thursday morning along the identical coastal expanse.

The combined impact of these severe weather conditions poses a serious threat to harbour operations, maritime navigation, and coastal infrastructure. Risks include vessel instability, potential capsising, and damage to key port facilities.

All coastal and beach activities are strongly discouraged during this period. Small to medium-sized vessels are urged to seek immediate shelter in harbours equipped with secure mooring. Additionally, heightened caution is advised due to the likelihood of strong rip currents.

Finally, KwaZulu-Natal has also been identified as one of eight provinces where disruptive snowfall is expected, which may significantly impede traffic flow over mountain passes, notably the N3 highway at Van Reenen’s Pass, from Monday through Tuesday.

KZNCoGTA affirmed that with the risk of snow and icy conditions remaining exceptionally high, “The Provincial Disaster Management Centre has received reports of icy road conditions in areas around Kokstad, with a continuing high risk of snow in high-lying areas for Monday and Tuesday. Alertness to weather conditions before embarking on any journey is urged, and motorists are especially advised to drive with extreme caution as conditions could be treacherous,” the department stated.

KZNCoGTA further underscored that the Provincial Disaster Management Centre maintains direct liaison with local municipalities to ensure that all requisite systems are fully operational to effectively manage any incidents that may arise from these severe weather phenomena.

The KZNCoGTA MEC further  urges all those in affected areas to remain vigilant, take all necessary precautions, and heed the warnings disseminated by the South African Weather Service and relevant disaster management authorities. The department remains committed to providing ongoing updates across its official platforms.

As KwaZulu-Natal navigates these challenging weather conditions, collective effort will be paramount in mitigating potential risks. By remaining informed, taking proactive steps, and strictly adhering to official advisories, safety and resilience can be significantly enhanced. Sustained vigilance and cooperation are crucial during this period of heightened meteorological activity.

Be sure to stay tuned for any updates and share your thoughts in the comment section below