KwaZulu-Natal has been placed on high alert as a severe storm system moves across the province, with a Level 6 weather warning issued for parts of the region. The Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) has activated its emergency coordination structures in response to the developing weather conditions, with Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, the KZN MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), urging motorists to avoid travel where possible.
According to the South African Weather Service (Saws), rainfall exceeding 80mm is expected in parts of the north-eastern and south-eastern regions of the province, raising the risk of flash flooding, damaging winds, hail, lightning strikes, and infrastructure damage. A Level 4 severe thunderstorm warning remains in place for the rest of the province, including eThekwini and the Midlands.
Preparations Underway
The PDMC has established an emergency Joint Operations Centre (JOC), bringing together district disaster management teams from Zululand, uMkhanyakude, King Cetshwayo, and Ugu to strengthen coordinated response efforts. Authorities have prioritized the protection of communities in low-lying settlements and areas near rivers and streams, while major transport routes such as the N2 and N3 are being closely monitored for flooding, debris, and possible disruptions.
Residents in low-lying areas and near rivers should remain alert and avoid crossing swollen streams or fast-flowing water. The public is advised to stay indoors where possible, avoid sheltering under trees, stay away from metal objects during thunderstorms, and move to higher ground if threatened by floodwaters.
Safety Precautions
To ensure safety, the following precautions should be taken:
- Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary
- Reduce speed in poor visibility
- Never attempt to drive through flooded roads or bridges
- Stay away from metal objects during thunderstorms
- Move to higher ground if threatened by floodwaters
The Provincial Joint Operations Centre will remain active for the duration of the weather system, which is expected to persist until Wednesday evening. For more information on weather conditions, visit the South African Weather Service Wikipedia page for updates.
