Severe weather alert: KwaZulu-Natal disaster teams prepare for heavy rains
Heavy rains have been forecast for KwaZulu-Natal on Sunday and Monday.
Image: Doctor Ngcobo / Independent Newspapers
Disaster management teams across KwaZulu-Natal are on high alert this weekend and into Monday as severe thunderstorms and heavy rains are forecast to sweep through large parts of the province.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) said that the Provincial Disaster Management Centre is closely monitoring weather patterns and coordinating with key agencies to ensure readiness for possible emergencies.
According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), severe thunderstorms are forecast to affect the western parts of the province, bringing strong winds, lightning, and heavy downpours that could cause localised flooding.
Cogta MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi said the department is working with municipalities, the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL), and other provincial departments to mitigate the risks associated with the expected bad weather.
“We are in constant communication with all disaster management teams across the province to ensure readiness and rapid response. Our priority is the safety of all residents, and we urge communities to remain vigilant, particularly those in low-lying areas that are prone to flooding,” said Buthelezi.
The MEC said the department has activated all relevant structures and has placed emergency personnel on standby to respond swiftly to incidents, especially along major routes and flood-prone areas.
Residents have been urged to take precautionary measures and to exercise caution when travelling at night. “We appeal to motorists to reduce speed and maintain a safe following distance during adverse weather conditions,” the department said.
Cogta also warned the public to avoid crossing low-lying bridges and flooded roads, as flash floods can occur without warning.
The department said it would continue to monitor the situation closely and issue updates as needed.
Communities have been encouraged to report any weather-related emergencies to their nearest municipal disaster management centres.
With the province still recovering from previous storm-related damages in several areas, authorities are reinforcing disaster preparedness to prevent loss of life and property.
Cogta spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila said the department’s teams would remain on full alert throughout the weekend and into Monday as weather conditions evolve.
Residents can contact their local municipal disaster management centres for assistance or report emergencies to Cogta through its official communication channels.