Wild and woolly weather to hit Zululand region
Shelter pets and stay indoors as severe thunderstorm activity is expected
BATTEN down the hatches and stay indoors as stormy weather is set to hit parts of the Zululand region later today (Thursday).
This after the SA Weather Service (SAWS) yesterday issued a level 2 warning for thunderstorms across much of the region and province.
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Areas to be affected include Hlabisa, Hluhluwe, Jozini, Mandeni, Maphumulo, Mthonjaneni, Mtubatuba, Nongoma, uMhlabuyalingana, uMhlathuze and uMlalazi.
The weather warning is in place from 2pm to 10pm today and is set to bring severe thunderstorms with possible heavy downpours, severe lightning, hail, and strong, damaging winds.
“Scattered to widespread showers and thunder showers are expected over KZN, with a possibility of severe storm development resulting in localised impacts,” said SAWS.
Potential impacts include localised flooding of settlements, low-lying roads and bridges; localised damage to infrastructure; possible localised lightning-related fire incidents, and difficult driving conditions.
“Take caution or avoid travelling on bridges and roads in low-lying areas, as these may be susceptible to flooding and there may be sinkholes,” advised SAWS.
“Avoid outdoor activities as lightning and flooding may result in injury or death; avoid being in an open field as there may be flying debris, and stay indoors, well clear of windows; shelter pets and cover vehicles.”
With long-range forecasts in September having predicted above-average rainfall for KZN over the summer months, the province has experienced widespread, heavy and persistent rainfall in recent days.
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