Severe weather warnings prompt high alert for disaster teams in KwaZulu-Natal
Severe weather warnings for disruptive rainfall and potential flooding have been issued for Wednesday.
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KwaZulu-Natal residents have been urged to exercise caution as disruptive rainfall is expected to affect large parts of the province this week.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued multiple alerts, including a Level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall for Wednesday, September 24 .
The warning applies to several municipalities, including eThekwini, Abaqulusi (Vryheid), Alfred Duma (Ladysmith), Big Five Hlabisa, Hluhluwe, Dannhauser, eDumbe, eMadlangeni, Endumeni, Jozini, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Maphumulo, Mkambathini, Mthonjaneni, Mtubatuba, Ndwedwe, and Newcastle.
A Level 2 warning for the same period for Msunduzi Municipality, KZN Midlands region, Drakensberg and other inland areas.
KwaZulu-Natal Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, confirmed that disaster management teams have been placed on high alert.
“We are working closely with municipalities to ensure that our disaster response mechanisms are ready and responsive. Communities are urged to follow official updates and take all necessary precautions to protect lives and property,” Buthelezi said.
Authorities warned that the anticipated heavy rains may lead to flooding of roads and low-lying settlements, damage to homes and public infrastructure, disruption of essential services, and increased risk to both human and animal life. Provincial traffic officials will also monitor major routes to support safe travel.
The department noted that residents in vulnerable areas such as near riverbeds, in informal settlements, and those with limited mobility face heightened risk.
Communities are encouraged to take proactive measures, including moving vehicles to higher ground, avoiding flooded roads, and preparing emergency kits with essentials such as medication, water, and important documents.
Residents have further been advised to remain indoors unless evacuation is necessary and to keep up with official weather and safety updates. “Weather conditions may change rapidly,” Cogta said in its statement, urging the public to rely on trusted sources, including local radio stations, television broadcasts, and official social media channels.
The Provincial Disaster Management Centre is coordinating with local municipalities to ensure readiness and rapid response to any incidents that may occur.