Disruptive rain and winds are expected to lash the North Coast from this afternoon until Friday.

This according to the South African Weather Service, which issued an orange level 6 weather warning for KwaDukuza and other parts of the province.

The warning is in place from 5pm today (Thursday) until Friday morning, although higher-than-average rain and winds have been forecasted to last into the weekend.

Disruptive weather is also expected to affect eThekwini, Mkhambathini, Ndwedwe, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni, uMuziwabantu and Umzumbe municipalities.

The authorities have urged the public to remain alert and to keep checking updates online and on social media platforms. Residents are advised not to travel unless necessary.

Impacts of heavy and persistent rainfall:

• Flooding of roads, bridges, informal settlements and suburbs.
• Danger to life due to fast-flowing rivers and deep waters.
• Major disruption to traffic flow due to major roads being flooded.
• Disruption to essential services (water, electricity and communication).
• Damage to mud-based houses.
• Possible mudslides leading to traffic disruptions and damage to property.

KwaDukuza municipality (KDM) also released an urgent alert asking residents to take precautions and report incidents.

Resident are encouraged to note the following:

• Avoid crossing low-lying bridges, especially in flood-prone areas.
• Refrain from driving through flooded roads or walking through deep water.
• Ensure that drainage systems around your home are clear to prevent water accumulation.
• Stay informed by monitoring updates from official municipal platforms (Facebook, X and Instagram) and the SAWS.

How to report any incidents:

If you encounter flooding or disaster-related incidents, please report them to KDM’s Community Safety Emergency on 032 946 2711 or 060 714 3764.

Alternatively, residents can contact the KDM Disaster Team Coordinator, Mlekeleli Gcabashe, on 073 624 3610. KDM will provide updates where necessary.

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