KZN weather alert escalated to Level 6
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) upgraded its warning on Tuesday.
KwaZulu-Natal has escalated its weather alert to a Level 6 warning, with disaster management teams placed on high alert as persistent disruptive rainfall is expected to continue until Wednesday night.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) upgraded its warning on Tuesday, prompting KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, to assure residents that provincial disaster management teams are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to respond.
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The Level 6 warning, which remains in effect until 11.59 pm on Wednesday, covers the coastal belt and adjacent interior, including eThekwini, KwaDukuza, uMhlathuze, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni, Mandeni, Mtubatuba, Big Five Hlabisa, uMlalazi and Umzumbe.
The upgraded warning signals an increased risk of flooding in formal and informal settlements, roads, bridges and low-lying areas, while fast-flowing rivers and streams pose a serious threat to life.
Authorities have also warned of severe traffic disruptions, damage to infrastructure and homes, particularly mud-based structures, and possible interruptions to essential services such as water, electricity and communications.
Buthelezi urged motorists and pedestrians to avoid flooded roads, low-lying bridges and fast-flowing streams, warning residents never to attempt crossing water above ankle depth.
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He also advised people living in vulnerable areas to move valuables above expected flood levels and relocate livestock to higher ground where possible.
Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma said the province has activated its severe weather response plan following updated forecasts from the South African Weather Service.
Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) teams and graders have been placed on standby in snow-prone areas, including the N3, Kokstad, Underberg, Harding, Newcastle, Pietermaritzburg and the N2, to manage possible road closures and clear snow.
Duma added that more than 170 rooms at Montclair Lodge have been made available to accommodate families who may be displaced by flooding.
