Urgent weather warning: KwaZulu-Natal faces severe thunderstorms and damaging winds

KwaZulu-Natal is bracing for a bout of severe weather, with widespread thunderstorms, damaging winds, and high seas expected to lash the province over the next few days.

Authorities are urging residents to exercise extreme caution as multiple alerts have been issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

The eThekwini Municipality has issued an urgent weather alert for the week, warning the public of a series of weather-related threats. According to SAWS, a Level 2 severe thunderstorm warning is in effect from Saturday, June 8, continuing into the early hours of Tuesday, June 10.

This includes widespread showers and thunderstorms which may lead to flooding, poor visibility, and hazardous driving conditions. A Level 4 alert for damaging winds is expected to affect KwaZulu-Natal - including eThekwini - from the early hours of Tuesday, June 11 into Wednesday morning.

These winds may cause falling trees, damage to power lines, and disruptions along coastal routes. Adding to the concern is a Level 4 warning for damaging waves forecasted from Tuesday morning into Thursday, June 13. Waves between 4.5 and 6 metres could result in coastal flooding, port disruptions, damage to infrastructure, and life-threatening rip currents.

The combined impact of severe thunderstorms, heavy downpours, rough seas, and gale-force winds may result in flooded roads, bridges, and low-lying settlements, localised damage to homes and infrastructure, especially mud-based houses.

Port and harbour disruptions can also be expected as well as dangerous driving conditions, and disruption of beach and coastal activities.

The public is urged to stay indoors where possible, avoid travelling unnecessarily, and refrain from crossing flooded rivers or streams.

Informal settlement residents and those in flood-prone areas are advised to take urgent precautions. Motorists should drive with extra caution, keeping headlights on and maintaining a safe following distance on slippery roads.

The Municipality’s Disaster Management Unit and emergency services are on high alert and monitoring the situation closely. The Provincial Disaster Management Centre is working with local municipalities to ensure all systems are in place for a swift response should emergencies occur.

"This is a period of extreme weather risk," said Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.

“We appeal to every resident to prioritise their safety and remain alert.”

The public is reminded that this warning may be updated as conditions change. SAWS will issue further advisories as needed. For emergencies in eThekwini, contact the City’s Disaster Management Centre at 031 3610000.