SAWS issues Yellow Level 2 warning for Newcastle
SAWS is urging residents and motorists to remain vigilant as they issue an Yellow Level 2 warning for Newcastle today. Read more here:
The South African Weather Service has issued an Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms in Newcastle and surrounding areas today (Wednesday, January 7 between 10:00 and 19:00.
According to SAWS, severe thunderstorms accompanied by heavy downpours with the potential to cause flooding of susceptible roads and settlements, strong damaging winds, hail and excessive lightning resulting in danger to life are expected over the western and eastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal today as well as tomorrow.
The areas possibly affected will be:
- Abaqulusi,
- Alfred Duma,
- Dannhauser,
- eDumbe,
- eMadlangeni,
- Endumeni,
- Newcastle,
- Okhahlamba and
- uPhongolo.
Potential Impacts Include:
- Flooding of roads, bridges and both formal & informal settlements
- Lightning strikes that may cause fires
- Hail leading to infrastructure damage
- Major traffic disruptions
- Danger to life
Click here for weather safety tips:
Residents and motorists are strongly advised to stay indoors where possible, avoid travelling, and keep off the roads.
“Avoid crossing swollen rivers and streams, and if trapped in floods, leave the vehicle and climb to higher ground. In buildings, at home, place valuables above the expected water level where they will be safe,” it concluded.
