Severe thunderstorms predicted for KZN

Communities urged to take necessary precautions as SA Weather Service issues level 2 warning for thunderstorms in parts of KZN

1 hour ago

Gugu Myeni 1 minute read

Thunderstorms expected over Zululand PHOTO: Daniel Lerman/Unsplash

Disaster management teams are on high alert amid a warning for severe thunderstorms expected to hit parts of KZN today (Tuesday).

The thunderstorms, accompanied by heavy rains, strong winds and lightning, are expected from 10am and will continue throughout the day over the southern and eastern parts of the province.

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Mtubatuba, uMhlathuze, Ulundi, Nongoma, Hluhluwe, Mthonjaneni, Mandeni and Nkandla are among the affected areas.

“A steep upper trough is exiting South Africa in the east on Tuesday, resulting in scattered showers and thundershowers over KZN,” noted the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

“These thunderstorms may become severe over southern and eastern KZN.”

Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has warned residents, particularly those living in low-lying areas and informal settlements, to take precautionary measures by moving to safer places and avoiding crossing rivers.

“Motorists are urged to check the weather conditions before embarking on a journey or, where possible, postpone their trips until the weather clears.

“Disaster management teams, working with municipalities, will monitor the weather situation throughout the day to ensure the safety of communities,” said the MEC.

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