The SA Weather Service this morning issued an orange level 5 warning for severe thunderstorms for the north-western parts of KZN.

This is coupled with yesterday’s yellow level 2 warning for the central and eastern parts of the province.

The heavy downpours leading to severe lightning, localised flooding of roads, settlements and low-lying areas are expected from this morning into the evening.

Municipalities to be impacted by the level 5 warning include Abaqulusi, Alfred Duma, Ladysmith, Dannhauser, eDumbe, eMadlangeni, Endumeni, Msinga, Mthonjaneni, Newcastle, Nkandla, Nongoma, Nquthu, Ulundi, and Pongola.

Meanwhile, the level 2 warning covers Hluhluwe, Big Five Hlabisa, Jozini, uMhlathuze, Mtubatuba, uMlalazi and Mandeni.

This has prompted KZN Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) to activate all disaster management teams.

“The public is encouraged to take proactive safety measures to minimise the impact of these predicted thunderstorms.

“Areas that are low-lying are at high risk owing to the heavy downpours expected. We advise residents to relocate to safer areas and to stay indoors.

“If outdoors, seek shelter immediately, but avoid hiding under trees, telephone poles or power lines. Motorists are advised to refrain from travelling during this period,” KZN Cogta stated.