KwaZulu-Natal residents are being warned to prepare for a wave of dangerous weather conditions this week, with the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall, set to begin on Tuesday. The warning comes as Snow Report SA has also forecast light to moderate snowfall in parts of the province, adding to the risk of hazardous conditions.

Widespread and persistent rain is expected across large parts of KZN, with a high risk of flooding, damage to infrastructure, and severe traffic disruptions. In response, disaster management teams have been placed on high alert to handle any emergencies that may arise.

According to Snow Report SA, snowfall is likely in high-lying areas, especially in parts of the Drakensberg region and along the KwaZulu-Natal/Lesotho border, where temperatures are expected to drop significantly. Light snow may also fall in Underberg, Sani Pass, and Giants Castle.

"While it is unusual to see snow this early in the season, the current weather system is cold enough to support light snowfall in elevated areas," Snow Report SA stated. The snow and heavy rainfall could further increase the risk of road closures and travel disruptions.

The KZN Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) confirmed that its emergency teams were on standby. MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has urged residents to take all warnings seriously.

“We are urging all residents in the affected areas to exercise extreme caution on Tuesday,” Buthelezi said. “Please avoid unnecessary travel, especially on dirt roads, and do not attempt to cross rivers or swollen streams where the water level is above your ankles.”

The areas under threat from severe weather include: Abaqulusi, Alfred Duma (Indaka and Ladysmith), Dannhauser, Dr N Dlamini-Zuma (Underberg), eDumbe, eMadlangeni, Endumeni, eThekwini, Greater Kokstad, Impendle, Ingwe, Inkosi Langalibalele (Escourt and Sobabili), KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Maphumulo, Mkhambathini, Mpofana (Giants Castle and Mooi River), Msinga, Mthonjaneni, Ndwedwe, Newcastle, Nkandla, Nquthu, Okhahlamba, Ray Nkonyeni, and Richmond.

Safety Tips for Residents

Authorities are urging residents to:

Stay indoors and avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary.
Refrain from crossing flooded rivers or streams.
Move valuable items to higher ground.
Relocate livestock to safe areas.
If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon the vehicle and seek higher ground.
Prepare for possible snow-related road closures in mountainous areas.

Buthelezi reassured the public that disaster teams are ready to respond swiftly should any emergencies arise.

“We are monitoring the situation closely. Our disaster teams are on the ground and prepared to assist communities in distress.”