Expect heavy rains as level 5 weather warning issued

ZULULANDERS are to be on high alert this afternoon and tonight (Wednesday) as yet another warning for severe weather has been issued.

This time the SA Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a level 5 warning for disruptive rains for much of KZN.

The warning is effective from midday until 11pm today.

Areas in the Zululand region to be affected are Hlabisa, Hluhluwe, Jozini, Mandeni, Mthonjaneni, Mtubatuba, Nkandla, Nongoma, Ulundi, uMhlabuyalingana, uMhlathuze and Pongola.

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Expect a ‘significant amount of rain which may lead to flooding of roads and settlements; damage to mud-based houses and displacement of communities is expected along the coast and northern interior of KZN’.

Widespread showers and thundershowers bringing significant rainfall are expected on already-saturated soil owing to recent heavy rains.

“More than 80mm of rainfall accumulation is expected in some places along the coast and the northern interior of KZN. There is a high risk of widespread flooding,” said SAWS.

“If possible, stay indoors and off the roads, avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above your ankles.

“If trapped in your vehicle during a flood, abandon it and climb to higher ground. In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level.

“In rural areas, protect or relocate animals to a safe place on higher ground. Take caution when travelling, or avoid travelling as roads may be flooded, with potholes being filled with water.”

Potential impacts:

• Flooding of settlements and roads; damage to bridges
• Displacement of affected communities and danger to life due to fast-flowing deep water
• Major disruption of traffic flow due to major roads flooding or closure
• Disruption to essential services

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