THE KwaZulu-Natal Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department (KZNCOGTA) has placed disaster management teams on high alert following a level 2 weather warning for eThekwini. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) indicated the strong likelihood of severe thunderstorms, heavy downpours and damaging winds from midnight on May 5 until 23:59 on May 6.

Also read: SA Weather Service issues Level 4 weather warning

SAWS shared that these storms carried the potential for localised flooding of susceptible roads and bridges, damage to infrastructure and settlements, difficulties when driving, as well as small to large hail over an open area. 

KZNCOGTA MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi confirmed that precautionary steps were already underway. He reassured residents that disaster management teams in all municipalities were equipped and ready to provide rapid responses to any emerging emergencies.

“Our disaster management teams across all municipalities have finalised winter readiness plans to protect lives and infrastructure. We are co-ordinating with social partners and sister departments to ensure a rapid, integrated response to any localised emergencies. We call upon all residents to exercise extreme caution and adhere to safety protocols,” he said. 

Winter warning

As the province anticipates a drop in temperatures with the onset of winter, residents were also advised to exercise particular vigilance when heating their homes. The department issued a warning concerning the unsafe deployment of braziers and generators, underscoring the serious potential for fires and the emission of harmful fumes. Parents, in particular, received a specific caution against leaving children unsupervised in the vicinity of heating appliances.

Emergency number:

For emergencies contact the City’s Disaster Management Centre on 031 361 0000.

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