IMPORTANT: Bad weather warning from Cogta MEC

Kwazulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Nomusa Dube-Ncube has placed disaster management teams on standby, following an alert from the South African Weather Service (SAWS) indicating that severe thunderstorms are expected over some parts of the province in the afternoon and evening today, Tuesday, October 30.

The alert indicates that lightning, flash flooding, very strong winds, hail and in some cases, tornadoes can be expected.

MEC Dube-Ncube has urged residents to take great caution as thunderstorms pose a serious threat to human life.

Also Read: ‘Gale force winds warning issued, exercise caution,’ says #WeatherReport

“In our province, bad weather patterns tend to leave a trail of death and destruction in their wake every year. We are therefore urging our communities to take great caution. We call upon motorists to be cautious on our roads and for pedestrians to be extra vigilant and avoid crossing flooded walkways,” said Dube-Ncube.

The MEC said disaster teams from municipalities were on standby and were keeping a close eye on developments regarding these thunderstorms.

Communities are urged to take the following precautions:

* If outdoors, seek shelter immediately and avoid seeking shelter under a tree, under telephone and/or power lines, on hilltops, in isolated sheds, under unprotected gazebos or picnic areas.

* Avoid being near metal objects such as – fences, golf carts, telephone or power lines and steel structures such as pylons and windmills;

* Do not – hold any metal object, use any electrical appliance, use the telephone, take a bath or shower;

* Do not play sport during thunderstorms. Golfers and fishermen are at high risk;

* If possible, stay indoors well clear of windows shelter pets and cover vehicles, disconnect electrical appliances.

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