WARNING: Heavy rain expected to lash KZN South Coast this week
Winter isn't done yet! Grab your raincoat, dress warmly and take extra care on the roads as heavy rain is forecast for the KZN South Coast this week.
Residents on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast are urged to prepare for heavy rain after the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall from 12:00 on Tuesday, July 28, until 23:59 on Wednesday, July 29.
The warning includes the South Coast municipalities of Ray Nkonyeni, Umzumbe and Umdoni, where widespread showers and thundershowers are expected to produce more than 40mm of rain from Tuesday afternoon into Wednesday morning.
According to SAWS, an upper trough over the western interior, combined with a ridging high-pressure system, will create conditions favourable for significant rainfall across much of KwaZulu-Natal.
Authorities have warned that the heavy rain could lead to flooding of roads, bridges and low-lying areas, while informal settlements and communities near rivers and streams may be particularly vulnerable.
Expected impacts include:
- Flooding of settlements, roads and bridges.
- Damage to homes, property and infrastructure.
- Dangerous conditions near fast-flowing rivers and deep water.
- Poor driving conditions due to reduced visibility and slippery roads.
- Possible road closures and traffic disruptions.
Ray Nkonyeni Municipality has urged residents to remain alert and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.
Motorists are advised to avoid travelling unless necessary and to never attempt to cross flooded roads or bridges. Residents living in flood-prone areas should move valuables to higher ground, while those in rural areas are encouraged to relocate livestock to safer areas if required.
Anyone caught in a vehicle during flooding should abandon it if it is safe to do so and move to higher ground.
For emergencies within the Ray Nkonyeni Municipal area, residents can contact the municipality’s 24-hour emergency control room on 039 682 5555.
Authorities will continue to monitor the weather situation and residents are encouraged to stay informed by following official weather updates.
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