DISASTER management teams around the region have been placed on high alert after reports from the SA Weather Service indicate the possibility of localised flooding.

This comes after today’s (Friday) scorching weather across northern KZN.

The provincial MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Sipho Hlomuka has urged residents of uMkhanyakude, Zululand, King Cetshwayo and uMzinyathi districts to exercise caution in light of the potentially severe weather.

‘We have placed our disaster management teams on standby in these areas and they are monitoring places that are prone to localised flooding,’ said Hlomuka.

‘We urge residents to be cautious, especially motorists and pedestrians.

‘Our province has lost many lives to lightning strikes and flooding, and we are calling upon pedestrians to ensure they do not cross walkways or bridges that are prone to flooding.

‘Those with livestock are urged to first seek shelter at the slightest indication of lightning.’

The department is continuing its rollout of lightning conductors in rural areas that are most prone to lightning strikes.