Flooding risk in northern KZN: Zululand and uMkhanyakude, disaster teams on high alert

KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, said the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) is closely monitoring persistent rainfall in the northern parts of the province, particularly in the Zululand and Umkhanyakude Districts.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 2 warning for disruptive rains for today, January 17, with heavy rainfall expected to continue into Sunday.

The Cogta department said these conditions may lead to localised flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Already, certain parts of Umhlabuyalingana, Nongoma and sections of Jozini are under pressure, with rising water levels affecting low-lying roads and bridges.

MEC Buthelezi has urged communities in these areas to refrain from attempting to cross flooded roads or overflowing bridges, as doing so puts lives at serious risk.

While KwaZulu-Natal has thus far been spared the worst of the severe weather that has impacted the northern parts of the country, MEC Buthelezi has conveyed his condolences to families in neighbouring provinces who have lost loved ones as a result of the adverse weather conditions.

“The KZN PDMC remains on high alert and has activated response and mitigation measures in collaboration with various government entities and emergency services. These efforts are aimed at safeguarding lives, supporting at-risk communities and ensuring rapid response in the event of emergencies,” the department said.

The MEC has cautioned that weather conditions are expected to deteriorate further in the coming week. Residents living in floodplains or low-lying areas are strongly encouraged to seek temporary shelter on higher ground as a precautionary measure.

“As government, we remain committed to ensuring that our province navigates these difficult weather conditions with minimal disruption and loss,” said MEC Buthelezi.

“We call on all residents to play their part by avoiding large bodies of water, observing safety alerts, and following the guidance of local authorities,” he said.

MEC Buthelezi also made a special appeal to parents, guardians, and educators to ensure that learners use safe and accessible routes when travelling to and from school during this period of unstable weather.

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