Residents across the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality area have been urged to prepare for damaging winds expected on Monday, August 10.

This comes as a Level 6 warning has been issued as disruptive snow, bitterly cold conditions and severe winter weather sweep across parts of South Africa.

The South African Weather Service (Saws) has issued a Level 4 warning for damaging winds, with the warning valid from midnight (Sunday 9) until 22:59 on Monday.

The warning includes several areas across KwaZulu-Natal, including parts of the South Coast and areas under Ray Nkonyeni Municipality.

According to the warning, an intense cold front is expected to pass through the province on Sunday, accompanied by an upper cut-off low-pressure system.

90km/h gusts expected

This could result in strong south-westerly winds, with an average speed of about 40km/h and gusts of up to 90km/h expected along the coast, adjacent interior and north-eastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

Residents urged to prepare

Locally, residents are being urged to take precautions as strong winds could result in damage to homes and infrastructure, fallen trees and branches, flying debris and disruption to travel.

The warning also highlights the possibility of a major build-up of sand along coastal routes, while some transport routes and services could be affected by strong winds and fallen trees.

Boaters are advised to seek shelter and avoid coastal activities while conditions are hazardous.

Ray Nkonyeni Municipality has urged residents to secure loose objects around their homes, stay away from trees, power lines and unstable structures, and keep monitoring weather updates.

Emergency number

Residents who encounter fallen trees, poles, debris or other hazards can contact the municipality’s 24-hour Emergency Control Centre on 039 682 5555.

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