Zululanders should prepare for bad weather and hazardous driving conditions this (Monday) afternoon and evening.

This as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms, in effect from 1pm to midnight today.

ALSO READ: Above average winter rainfall expected for Zululand region

Areas to be affected include Hlabisa, Hluhluwe, Jozini, Mthonjaneni, Mtubatuba, Nkandla, Nongoma, Pongola, Ulundi, uMhlabuyalingana and uMhlathuze.

“Severe thunderstorms accompanied by heavy downpours, severe lightning, hail and damaging winds, resulting in flooding and damage to infrastructure are expected over the northern parts of KZN,” said the SAWS.

“A weak surface high pressure system is expected to ridge over the eastern parts and a cut-off low is expected over central parts of the country. [These] are expected to result in scattered to widespread showers and thundershowers, with some expected to be severe over northern parts of KZN.”

Potential impacts

• Flooding of roads and bridges, as well as formal and informal settlements
• Hail resulting in damage to infrastructure
• Danger to life due to fast-flowing water/sreams
• Major travel disruptions, including route obstructions
• Lightning, resulting in potential fire incidents

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

“If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon it and climb to higher ground. In buildings, move valuables to a safer place above the flood line; if possible, stay indoors away from metal objects; do not seek shelter under trees or tall objects; do not go fishing or play golf, as both rods and clubs are good conductors of electricity.”

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