Weather Alert

*WEATHER ALERT: LEVEL 2 SEVER THUNDERSTORM EXPECTED IN THE CENTRAL PARTS OF KWAZULU-NATAL ON MONDAY EVENING*

The Provincial Disaster Management Centre is warning the public, particularly, in the central parts of KwaZulu-Natal areas of the predicted severe thunderstorms and heavy rains that could result in localised flooding and damage to infrastructure.

The severe thunderstorms will begin just after midday throughout the evening. This alert may affect the following areas: Umgungundlovu District – Mooi River, Howick, Impendle, Uthukela District – Escort, Giant Castle, Ladysmith, Bergville, Amajuba District – Newcastle, Dannhauser, Utrecht and Zululand District – eDumbe, Vryheid, Mondlo areas.

According to the South African Weather Services, scattered showers and thundershowers are expected over the central parts with the possibility of some of them becoming severe. As the thunderstorm will be accompanied by heavy rains this could result in localised flooding, damage to infrastructure, settlements, vehicles and livestock.

Communities are advised to adhere to precautionary measures to ensure safety during this period. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution when travelling, or consider postponing travel plans as roads may become impassable due to flooding, water-filled potholes, and potential sinkholes. In rural areas, residents living along riverbanks should be prepared to evacuate to higher ground if necessary, as riverbanks may flood. The Department has activated disaster management teams in all affected municipalities, ensuring they remain on high alert during this period.

Issued by the KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs