KwaZulu-Natal braces for severe weather with rainfall warnings issued
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has called on residents to exercise caution as the province is expected to experience adverse weather conditions throughout the week.
Image: File Doctor Ngcobo/ Independent Newspapers
The KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has issued an urgent warning to residents ahead of a week marked by severe weather conditions, specifically disruptive rainfall.
These warnings, confirmed by the South African Weather Service, have raised concerns among authorities and the public alike, as potential flooding threatens communities across the province.
A Level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall has been announced for Wednesday. The warning encompasses numerous municipalities, including the bustling city of eThekwini (Durban), Abaqulusi, Alfred Duma (Ladysmith), and many others, outlining a significant risk of hazardous weather events.
Alongside the severe Level 4 warning, a Level 2 warning will also be in effect within areas such as Alfred Duma (Indaka), Dr N. Dlamini-Zuma (Underberg), and the Greater Kokstad region. These warnings highlight the extensive reach of the anticipated adverse conditions, signalling a critical time for many communities in the province.
The anticipated rainfall poses a variety of threats, including road flooding, damage to homes and public infrastructure, disruption of essential services, and an escalated risk to both human and animal life. In light of these dangers, provincial traffic officials will be closely monitoring major routes to facilitate safe travel during this precarious time.
MEC Buthelezi has activated disaster management teams throughout KwaZulu-Natal, emphasising the importance of preparing for swift responses to any incidents that may arise from the predicted weather.
“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.
Particularly vulnerable populations, including residents near riverbeds and those living in informal settlements, are encouraged to take proactive safety measures.
The Provincial Disaster Management Centre is coordinating efforts with local municipalities to ensure all areas are ready for any developments.
In an effort to keep the public safe, local authorities advise residents to adhere to crucial safety guidelines as the severe weather approaches:
- Avoid crossing flooded roads or bridges, even if water appears shallow.
- Move vehicles to higher ground if parked in flood-prone areas.
- Prepare emergency kits with essential items such as medication, water, and important documents.
- Remain indoors unless evacuation is advised.
- Monitor updates from trusted sources including local radio stations, TV broadcasts, and official social media channels.
Weather conditions are likely to change quickly, and residents are encouraged to stay informed through regular updates from the South African Weather Service and local authorities. Information will be disseminated across multiple channels to ensure accessibility to everyone, ensuring that no one is left uninformed as the situation unfolds.
IOL