South African Weather Services predicts severe thunderstorms over parts of Mbombela
The weather warning was issued for today, February 19, and is expected to hit parts of Mbombela and the province between 14:00 and 22:00.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms over parts of Mpumalanga, including Mbombela, today, February 19.
The thunderstorms are expected to affect Bushbuckridge, Mbombela, Barberton, Sabie and parts of Nkomazi between 14:00 and 22:00 today.
The warning predicts heavy downpours, strong and damaging winds, and possibly hail.
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The downpours are expected to produce up to 50mm of rain in a short time.
The impacts of the storm could include flooding of low-lying bridges and informal settlements, localised damage to properties and vehicles due to the hail, damage to settlements and difficult driving conditions.
SAWS has urged people to stay indoors and off the roads where possible, and to avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where the water level goes above your ankles.
If you are trapped in a vehicle during the flood, SAWS urges you to abandon it and move to higher ground.
