KwaZulu-Natal communities are being urged to prepare for possible drought conditions, prolonged dry spells and severe heatwaves as the province faces a seasonal outlook of below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures.
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has called on residents, farmers and businesses to take precautions against the potential impacts of El Niño.
According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), El Niño occurs when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean become warmer than average, influencing weather patterns and increasing the likelihood of drier conditions in parts of southern Africa.
The seasonal outlook indicates that KwaZulu-Natal could experience below-normal rainfall between October and December 2026, with these conditions potentially continuing into March 2027.
Above-normal temperatures and an increased risk of severe and frequent heatwaves are also forecast, raising concerns about water security, public health and agricultural production.
Water shortages and food security concerns
The potential impacts include water shortages, veld and forest fires, reduced agricultural production, livestock stress and increased pressure on health services.
Children, older people and residents of informal settlements are among those particularly vulnerable to extreme heat.
Prolonged dry conditions during the planting season could also affect crop yields, livestock production and food security across the province.
Buthelezi has urged communities to remain alert to official weather warnings and take precautionary measures to limit the potential effects on their families, livelihoods and property.
KZN steps up disaster preparedness
The Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) is coordinating preparedness efforts with relevant provincial departments, municipalities and other stakeholders.
These include the departments responsible for health, agriculture, water and sanitation, environmental affairs and social development.
The measures are intended to strengthen the provincial response, monitor drought indicators and reduce risks to communities.
“The PDMC will closely monitor drought indicators and coordinate preparedness planning across the province,” Buthelezi said.
He said municipalities were being engaged to address water leaks, strengthen water conservation and develop contingency plans to maintain water supplies.
Water Services Authorities have also been urged to prioritise conservation and ensure that appropriate drought response measures are in place.
The department responsible for water and sanitation will monitor dam levels and support drought response measures, while the Department of Agriculture will continue advising farmers on climate-smart farming practices and drought-resistant crops.
Farmers and residents urged to take precautions
Farmers have been urged to monitor livestock closely and take steps to protect animals from heat stress and water shortages.
Residents are also being encouraged to use water responsibly, avoid activities that could trigger veld and forest fires, and take precautions during periods of extreme heat.
Buthelezi said the provincial government would work with municipalities, technical experts, social partners and traditional leaders, known as Amakhosi, to ensure communities receive timely information and practical guidance.
“Disaster preparedness is a collective responsibility, and early action can help reduce the impact of these conditions on our people and their livelihoods,” he said.
The MEC urged residents to follow official weather advisories, heed warnings and take the necessary steps to protect their families, livestock and property.
IOL