AMID intensifying winds and predicted bad weather, the Zululand Yacht Club (ZYC) this afternoon (Tuesday) issued a directive, requesting yacht owners to ensure their vessels are securely tied to their moorings.

South to south-southwesterly winds of 60km/h are expected later today.

This after the SA Weather Service (SAWS) this morning issued a statement warning of heavy downpours for the eastern, northern and central parts of the country from today, lasting until Thursday.

While disaster management teams in the Zululand, King Cetshwayo and uMkhanyakude districts have not been placed on high alert for heavy rains, those immediately south have, as localised flooding is expected in the uThukela, uMgungundlovu and Harry Gwala districts.

However, Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) MEC, Sipho Hlomuka, did warn of a risk of gale force winds along the uMkhanyakude coastline.

‘We appeal to residents, especially along the coast, to put their safety first and ensure they seek shelter in sturdy buildings during these strong winds,’ he said.

The department also said that sea swells of up to four metres are expected.