Residents in the Zululand region are being urged to heed the severe weather warnings and to minimise travel this weekend.

This as heavy downpours, accompanied by damaging winds and excessive lightning, are anticipated from Saturday.

ALSO READ: Weekend forecast: Brace for bad weather conditions

A yellow level 2 warning (moderate risk) is in place for, among other areas: Big 5 Hlabisa, Hluhluwe, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Mtubatuba, uMhlabuyalingana, uMhlathuze and uMlalazi.

While the SA Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a level 4 warning (higher risk) for: Mthonjaneni, Ulundi, Nkandla, Nongoma and Jozini
This has prompted Cogta MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi to place disaster management teams on high alert across KZN.

“We advise residents to limit travel and avoid crossing low-lying bridges. Disaster management teams are on standby in all affected municipalities to respond to any incidents that may arise.

“The Provincial Disaster Management Centre has been activated, and all municipal disaster management units have been placed on high alert,” said Buthelezi.

The department said it is coordinating with relevant stakeholders, including transport, municipal traffic authorities, social development, Sanral and Eskom.

These entities are expected to respond to potential emergencies such as road closures, power outages and infrastructure damage.

Potential hazards include:

• Flooding of homes, informal settlements and low-lying areas
• Severe thunderstorms with damaging winds, hail and lightning
• Disruption of essential services such as electricity and water supply
• Dangerous road conditions and reduced visibility

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