eThekwini braces for damaging winds of up to 80km/h
eThekwini Municipality has issued a warning, urging residents to secure loose items as strong winds are expected across the area.
THE eThekwini Municipality Disaster Management Centre and emergency services teams are on high alert following a Level 2 weather warning for damaging winds issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) for today (September 14).
The Level 2 Impact-Based Warning for Damaging Winds is in effect until 23:59. According to the eThekwini Municipality, a strong high-pressure system is expected to generate strong northerly to north-easterly winds, with average speeds of between 35km/h and 40km/h and gusts reaching up to 80km/h.
Municipal spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila urged residents to heed the warning by securing loose items and taking extra care on the roads.
“Municipal emergency response teams are on high alert to clear fallen trees, remove debris, unblock stormwater infrastructure, and render immediate assistance to affected communities.”
Also Read: Strong winds leave trail of damage across Durban
He said the conditions could also disrupt maritime operations, with port and small-harbour activities potentially affected by difficult navigation and an increased risk of small vessels taking on water or capsizing.
Coastal and land areas could also be affected, with disruptions to beachfront activities and the possibility of localised structural damage to both formal and informal settlements.
The warning comes after strong winds in late August uprooted more than 20 trees across eThekwini and left residents in several areas without electricity.
The affected areas included Baphehli, Folweni, Amaoti, Waterloo, Moriah, Klaarwater, Savannah Park, Inanda, Redcliffe, Malukazi, KwaNdengezi, Clermont, Umlazi C and Thornwood.
Also Read: Aftermath of strong winds sparks high volume of electricity faults
“Most of the outages occurred on overhead medium-voltage (OHM) circuits, which are particularly vulnerable to strong winds. Tree branches and other flying objects, including roof sheets, can damage overhead electricity infrastructure and result in outages,” said Mzila.
He added, “The City is monitoring the situation closely, and updates will be provided should conditions change.”
Residents needing emergency assistance can contact the City’s Disaster Management Centre on 031 361 0000.
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