KwaZulu-Natal is on high alert as disaster management teams prepare for disruptive level 2 and 4 weather conditions, reminiscent of the cut-off low system that brought widespread devastation to the province in April 2022. The KwaZulu-Natal co-operative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) department issued a public advisory following severe weather warnings from the South African Weather Service (SAWS).
The warnings are in effect from Saturday through Monday, as a cut-off low pressure system is expected to bring heavy rainfall, severe thunderstorms, and strong winds across various parts of the province.
Cogta MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi urged residents to take precautions. "We advise residents to limit travel and avoid crossing low-lying bridges," he said. "Disaster management teams are on standby in all affected municipalities to respond to incidents."
All municipal disaster management units have been placed on high alert, Buthelezi confirmed, ensuring a swift and coordinated response to any emergencies that may arise.
The department is working closely with key stakeholders, including:
- The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport
- KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development
- Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) and Municipal Traffic Services
- Sanral
- Eskom
These entities are prepared to respond to potential emergencies such as road closures, power outages, and infrastructure damage.
The level 4 warning, indicating a higher risk of severe impacts, applies to the following municipalities: Abaqulusi, Alfred Duma Indaka, Alfred Duma – Ladysmith, Dannhauser, Dr N. Dlamini-Zuma-Underberg, eDumbe, eMadlangeni, Endumeni, Greater Kokstad, Impendle, Ingwe, Inkosi Langalibalele Escourt, Inkosi Langalibalele Sobabili, Jozini, Mpofana Giants Castle, Mpofana Mooi River, Msinga, Mthonjaneni, Newcastle, Nkandla, Nongoma, Nquthu, Okhahlamba, Richmond, Msunduzi, Ubuhlebezwe, Ulundi, uMngeni and uMshwathi.
Areas under the level 2 warning, facing a moderate risk, include: Big Five Hlabisa, Hluhluwe, eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Maphumulo, Mkhambathini, Mtubatuba, Ndwedwe, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni, Umhlabuyalingana, uMhlathuze, uMlalazi and Umzumbe.
The potential hazards associated with the approaching weather system include:
- Flooding of homes, informal settlements, and low-lying areas
- Severe thunderstorms with damaging winds, hail, and lightning
- Disruption of essential services such as electricity and water supply
- Dangerous road conditions and reduced visibility
The Cogta department is urging residents in affected areas to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property. This includes securing loose objects, clearing gutters and drains, and staying informed about weather updates.
The memories of the devastating floods of April 2022, which resulted in significant loss of life and widespread damage to infrastructure, are still fresh in the minds of many KwaZulu-Natal residents. The authorities are determined to minimise the impact of the approaching weather system through proactive measures and effective coordination.
Residents are advised to monitor local news and weather reports for the latest updates and to heed the warnings and advice issued by disaster management officials. It is crucial to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall and to exercise extreme caution on the roads.
The coming days will be a test of KwaZulu-Natal's preparedness and resilience. With disaster management teams on full alert and a coordinated response plan in place, the province is hoping to weather the storm and minimise the impact on its communities. The focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents as the province braces for the approaching weather system.
Follow Us on Twitter
