THE South African Weather Services (Saws) has issued a yellow level four weather warning for KZN today (April 23) from 05:00 until 20:59. While the yellow status suggests low likelihood, the level four suggests significant impact from the stormy weather.

Also read: Level 5 weather warning: KZN disaster management team on high alert

The impact-based warning suggests that heavy and prolonged rainfall is expected to batter the province due to a cut-off low pressure system over the western interior and an onshore flow driven by a surface high pressure system. Such weather conditions are expected to result in scattered to widespread thundershowers and showers, with high chances of localised flooding and damage to infrastructure.

Anticipated effects:

• Flooding of roads, bridges and low-lying settlements.

• Destruction of mud-based homes, buildings and essential infrastructure.

• Widespread traffic disruption via road blockage and waterlogging.

• Hazardous driving conditions in the region.

Saws safety guidelines:

Homeowners should remain indoors and off roads whenever possible.

• Avoid flooded rivers and streams, especially where water is ankle level or higher.

• If stuck in a flood in a vehicle, exit and go to higher ground.

• Secure valuables and important documents by bringing them above expected flood levels.

• Rural dwellers should relocate livestock to safer, higher locations.

Emergency contact information

• Emergency Services: 10111
• Weather Service: 082 162
• Disaster Management: 080 111 1111
• eThekwini Municipality’s provisional emergency contact: 031 322 4457

Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox.