A waterlogged road in uMlazi after heavy rains two weeks ago. The eThekwini Municipality has warned residents to take heed of a severe weather warning issued for Thursday and Friday. Picture: Tumi Pakkies Independent Newspapers
Image: Tumi Pakkies Independent Newspapers
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has upgraded its weather warning from Level 2 to Level 6 for eThekwini and seven other municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal, signalling a high risk of severe flooding and damage.
The warning is in effect from midnight on Thursday, 13 March, until midnight on Friday, 14 March. The affected municipalities are eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Mkhambathini, Ndwedwe, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni, uMuziwabantu and Umzumbe.
It follows severe flooding that devastated parts of the city just two weeks ago, resulting in at least seven fatalities and widespread destruction.
EThekwini spokesperson Gugu Sisilana said: “These thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by disruptive rain, leading to localised flooding.”
Authorities warn that the upcoming downpour could exacerbate damage to roads, homes, and infrastructure already weakened by the previous storms. “Models are indicating a high likelihood of heavy rains over the eastern parts, where significant impacts can be expected,” Sisilana cautioned.
The City has advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to remain indoors where possible.
Sisilana said the severe weather forecast may result in the flooding of roads and settlements, poor driving conditions, damage to infrastructure, and the destruction of mud-based houses.
The eThekwini Municipality’s Disaster Management and emergency services have been placed on standby to respond to any incidents that may arise.
“The municipality’s Disaster Management and emergency services are monitoring the forecasts,” said Sisilana.
Two weeks ago, the province experienced deadly flash floods that resulted in seven fatalities, with five people drowning in Lamontville, one person killed in a Chatsworth mudslide, and another drowning reported in Malangeni, uMdoni.
Numerous roads across the city were submerged, causing transport disruptions and damage to infrastructure.
Authorities have urged the public to remain alert for updates. “This alert remains subject to change, and the SAWS will update the warning accordingly tomorrow, 12 March, if all is still on track,” said Sisilana.
Residents are reminded not to attempt to cross rivers and streams during heavy rains and to contact emergency services in urgent situations.
“In cases of emergencies, the public can contact the City’s temporary emergency number on 031 322 4457,” said Sisilana.