The KZN Provincial Disaster Management Centre is on high alert, following weather warnings issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) from last night.

The Witness reports that reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, has urged residents to be cautious as these conditions pose a significant risk to lives.

Severe thunderstorms are expected along the eastern and southern parts of KZN today.

These storms may bring heavy downpours, leading to localised flooding, large amounts of hail and damaging winds.

Potential impacts include localised damage to infrastructure and settlements, localised flooding of susceptible roads and bridges, minor motor vehicle accidents due to slippery roads and poor visibility, difficult driving conditions on dirt roads, and localised damage to mud-based houses,” said Cogta.

Areas that could be affected by these storms include Underberg, Big Five Hlabisa, eThekwini, Greater Kokstad, Impendle, Ingwe, Inkosi Langalibalele Sobabili, Jozini, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Maphumulo, Mkhambathini, Mpofana (Giants Castle and Mooi River), Mthonjaneni, Mtubatuba, Ndwedwe, Nkandla, Nongoma, Okhahlamba, Ray Nkonyeni, Richmond, Msunduzi, Ubuhlebezwe, Ulundi, Umdoni, Umhlabuyalingana and uMhlathuze.

Cogta has urged residents to exercise caution or avoid travelling on bridges and roads in low-lying areas due to potential flooding and sinkholes.

“Outdoor activities should be avoided as lightning, hail and flooding may result in injuries and fatalities. If possible, stay indoors, well clear of windows; shelter pets; and cover vehicles. Livestock and vehicles should be moved to safe, sheltered areas due to the risk of flying debris,” said Cogta.

SAWS has issued a Level 4 alert for damaging winds and waves along the KZN coastline, affecting areas such as Big Five Hlabisa, eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Mfolozi, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni and uMlalazi.

Damaging winds are anticipated between Port Edward and Kosi Bay from Tuesday mid-morning until Wednesday evening, which could cause substantial sand build-up on coastal routes, disrupt ports and small harbours, and risk dragging anchors or breaking mooring lines for medium to large vessels.

Cogta added that there is a particular concern for potential damage to power lines from falling trees.

Damaging waves, expected to range between 4.5m and 6m, are predicted from tomorrow afternoon until Thursday early morning along the same coastal stretch.

Cogta said this poses a risk of harbour and port disruption, navigation difficulties, vessels taking on water or capsizing and damage to coastal infrastructure.

“Residents and marine operators are strongly advised to avoid coastal and beach activities during this period; small to medium boats should seek the shelter of a harbour with proper mooring, and the public should be aware of strong rip currents,” said Cogta.

It added that the risk of snow and icy conditions remains very high.

The Provincial Disaster Management Centre has received reports of icy road conditions in areas around Kokstad, with a continuing high risk of snow in high-lying areas for today and tomorrow.

“Residents are urged to stay alert and aware of weather conditions before embarking on any journey, and motorists are especially advised to drive with extreme caution as conditions could be treacherous,” said Cogta.

Cogta said that the Provincial Disaster Management Centre is in direct liaison with local municipalities to ensure all necessary systems are in place to effectively deal with any incidents arising from these severe weather conditions.

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