As large parts of KwaZulu-Natal remain gripped by an intense and unrelenting heatwave, weather conditions across the province are set to deteriorate, with the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issuing a warning for severe thunderstorms expected to impact several towns. The storms are forecast to develop during the afternoon and continue well into the night.
According to SAWS, isolated showers and thunderstorms are expected across KwaZulu-Natal on Monday, 26 January 2026.
Notably, a number of these storms are forecast to intensify over the western regions of the province. Consequently, severe conditions are expected to include heavy downpours, damaging winds, excessive lightning, and hail, all of which may result in minor but disruptive impacts.
These impacts are expected to include localised damage to infrastructure and settlements, along with flooding on vulnerable roads and bridges. Furthermore, SAWS has cautioned that slippery road surfaces and reduced visibility may lead to minor vehicle accidents. The risk of localised injuries caused by flying debris during strong winds has also been highlighted.
The towns expected to be most affected by the storms include Newcastle, Ladysmith, Estcourt, Dannhauser, Utrecht, Dundee, and Underberg.
SAWS has therefore advised residents in these areas to exercise caution and to avoid travelling through low-lying areas, which remain vulnerable to flooding and the potential formation of sinkholes.
Communities within the affected areas have also been urged to limit outdoor activities. This follows warnings that lightning strikes, hail, and floodwaters pose a significant risk, with the potential for serious injury or loss of life.
Despite the forecast for severe thunderstorms, AccuWeather has separately warned that extreme heat conditions will persist in Newcastle and Ladysmith over the coming days. Forecast data indicates that temperatures in Newcastle are expected to peak at 34°, with a real feel of 39° and a UV Index of 13 on Tuesday, 27 January 2026.
Meanwhile, Ladysmith is forecast to record temperatures of up to 36°, with a real feel of 38°, while the UV Index is expected to remain equally elevated.
As severe thunderstorms and extreme heat continue to affect large parts of KwaZulu-Natal, residents are urged to prioritise community safety by remaining alert to changing conditions and adhering to official warnings.
Practical measures, including securing loose property, clearing stormwater drainage, and avoiding flooded roads and bridges, remain critical in reducing preventable harm. Importantly, travel should be limited during periods of intense rainfall, as conditions can deteriorate rapidly, placing motorists and pedestrians at heightened risk.
Concurrently, the persistence of extreme heat presents an ongoing public health concern, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, pets and those working outdoors. Limiting sun exposure, maintaining adequate hydration, and seeking cooler indoor environments are essential in reducing the risk of heat-related illness.
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