Kwazulu-Natal On High Alert: Level 8 Weather Warning For Heavy Rains, Floods

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has put disaster management teams on high alert after the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Level 8 warning for disruptive rainfall for large parts of the province from January 6 to January 8, 2025.

The bad weather is expected to cause low-water bridges to overflow, localized flooding, and disruptions to major roads due to heavy rainfall in many parts of the province from Monday to Wednesday, SA News reported.

The heavy rain is also expected to cause flooding in settlements, on roads, and around bridges. Forecasters warn that the rain could be so intense that it may damage property and infrastructure, especially mud-based houses.

Residents are advised to prepare for poor driving conditions and significant traffic disruptions due to road and bridge closures.

The SAWS forecasts scattered (60%) and widespread (80%) showers and thunderstorms in central and eastern South Africa, including the North West, Free State and southern parts of Mpumalanga and Gauteng.

Rainfall is expected to increase, ranging from 50mm to 70mm. This could lead to road flooding, slippery surfaces, and flash floods. Motorists are advised to use headlights and drive slowly in these conditions. Residents are urged to:

• Not to cross flooded roads or swollen streams.
• Move to higher ground if water levels rise.
• Avoid traveling on bridges or roads in low-lying areas, as they are more likely to flood.
• Keep headlights on and drive slowly during rain.
• Keep windscreens clear to maintain visibility.

The provincial department identified several areas that may be affected, including Big Five Hlabisa, Hluhluwe, eThekwini, Jozini, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Maphumulo, Mkhambathini, Mthonjaneni, Ndwedwe, Nongoma, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni, Umhlabuyalingana, uMhlathuze, uMlalazi, Umzumbe and uPhongolo.

The provincial department urged residents to pay attention to the severe weather warning and take all necessary safety precautions.

The Provincial Disaster Management Centre has called a meeting with key groups, including the South African National Roads Agency, the South African Police Service, municipal disaster management teams, and other social partners.

The team will also collaborate with departments such as Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Social Development, Transport and Agriculture. All stakeholders have confirmed they are prepared to handle any issues caused by the bad weather.

Disaster management teams have been assigned to monitor areas at risk of weather-related incidents across the province's districts.