Residents across KwaZulu-Natal are being urged to prepare for severe thunderstorms expected to move across the province. The warning follows a Level 2 advisory issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), signalling potentially dangerous weather conditions.
According to SAWS, a surface trough over the western parts of South Africa, combined with a ridging high-pressure system in the east, is expected to trigger isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms across KwaZulu-Natal.
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The weather authority further noted that some of these storms could intensify, particularly over the western regions of the province, raising the risk of significant localised impacts.
Areas expected to be impacted include:
Newcastle
Bergville
Underberg
Ladysmith
Indaka
Estcourt
uMngeni
Dannhauser
Utrecht
Giants Castle
Mooi River
Msinga
SAWS has also cautioned that motorists may encounter dangerous driving conditions.
Low-lying roads and bridges remain particularly vulnerable to flooding, while heavy downpours and strong winds could result in slippery surfaces and poor visibility, increasing the risk for travellers.
To reduce the danger, residents are advised to avoid travelling through flood-prone areas and to exercise extreme caution during any outdoor activity. People are also encouraged to remain indoors where possible and to ensure that pets and livestock are moved to safe shelter.
“Lightning, hail, flooding may result in injuries or death, while flying debris from the damaging winds may result in injury,” SAWS warned.
As conditions develop, communities are being urged to remain alert and take practical steps to protect themselves and those around them. This includes checking on vulnerable family members, limiting unnecessary exposure to risk and making informed decisions as the weather unfolds.
By following credible weather updates and trusted news sources, residents will be better placed to respond quickly to changing conditions. With unstable weather expected, vigilance, preparation and careful decision-making may prove critical in reducing the impact of the day’s storms.
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