Wendy Dondolo|Published
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms in parts of KwaZulu-Natal today, cautioning that heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail and lightning could cause localised flooding and damage to infrastructure.
The warning covers several district, local and metropolitan municipalities across the central and eastern parts of the province, including eThekwini, Big Five Hlabisa, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Mkhambathini, Impendle, Ingwe, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Mpofana, Ndwedwe, Nkandla, Nquthu, Richmond, Mfolozi, Msinga, Mthonjaneni, Mtubatuba, Umdoni, Umlalazi, Msunduzi, Ubuhlebezwe, Ulundi, uMhlathuze, uMngeni, uMshwathi, uMvoti and uMzumbe.
“Severe thunderstorms accompanied by heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail and lightning resulting in localised flooding and damage to infrastructure and settlement are expected in places over the central and eastern part of KZN,” SAWS said.
The weather service warned that the storms could damage infrastructure and settlements, flood roads and bridges, and create hazardous driving conditions. Slippery roads and poor visibility could also increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents, while hail could damage property.
Motorists have been urged to exercise caution and avoid travelling on bridges and roads in low-lying areas that are vulnerable to flooding. SAWS also warned of the potential formation of sinkholes.
Residents are advised to avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms because lightning, hail and flooding could cause serious injuries or fatalities. Where possible, people should remain indoors, away from windows, shelter their pets and move vehicles and livestock to safe, sheltered areas to protect them from hail and flying debris.
KwaZulu-Natal is expected to experience cloudy conditions and morning fog over the southern and extreme western interior, becoming partly cloudy and warm elsewhere. Isolated afternoon showers and thundershowers are forecast in the north and extreme west.
A 30% chance of isolated showers and thundershowers is forecast over parts of the interior, including areas near the Free State, North West, the eastern interior and parts of KwaZulu-Natal. However, the rainfall is expected to be localised, meaning some areas may remain dry despite nearby cloud build-up.