KZN residents urged to prepare for severe thunderstorms and potential flooding

KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has urged residents across parts of the province to remain on high alert as severe thunderstorms are expected to hit several districts from Tuesday.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms and scattered rainfall over the western and northern regions of the province, with conditions expected to continue into Wednesday.

The storms may bring heavy downpours and strong winds, raising the risk of flash flooding and damage to homes and infrastructure.

MEC Buthelezi appealed to communities, especially those in low-lying and flood-prone areas, to take immediate precautions to safeguard their lives and property.

“We plead with communities that will be affected by these storms to exercise extreme caution,” said MEC Buthelezi.

“Parents are urged to keep children indoors, avoid crossing swollen rivers or streams, and ensure that drainage systems around homes are cleared. Our disaster management teams and emergency services are on high alert and ready to respond to any eventualities.”

According to Cogta, all disaster management centres in the affected districts have been activated. The department is working in collaboration with municipalities and emergency services to coordinate response efforts should severe weather incidents occur.

Residents are encouraged to report weather-related emergencies to their nearest municipal disaster management centre for immediate assistance. Cogta said it will continue to monitor the weather and provide updates as the situation develops.

The warning comes as many parts of KwaZulu-Natal continue to recover from previous storm damage in recent months, which left several communities displaced and infrastructure severely affected.

IOL News