The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned KwaZulu-Natal residents to expect severe thunderstorms and widespread showers tonight.
A Yellow Level 2 warning has been issued, covering most parts of the province, including the Midlands, Drakensberg, Durban, and both the south and north coasts.
According to SAWS, the warning signifies “a low to moderate impact with possible minor disruptions.” The weather system is driven by a surface trough over the western parts of the country and a cold front passing through the east. These conditions are expected to trigger isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers across KZN.
Severe thunderstorms, heavy downpours and damaging winds are expected
Forecasters predict that some thunderstorms could turn severe, especially in the Midlands and southern areas. The storms are expected to bring heavy downpours, strong winds, excessive lightning, and small to large hail.
“Communities should take this warning seriously,” the SAWS advisory stated.
“Severe thunderstorms may result in localised flooding, damage to infrastructure, and dangerous driving conditions.”
Residents are advised to secure outdoor items, avoid open areas during lightningstrikes, and delay travel plans whenever possible.
Last month, authorities also urged communities to exercise caution as unpredictable weather patterns continued to impact KwaZulu-Natal. The upcoming system, however, is expected to be more widespread, potentially causing disruptions across several districts.
Safety first as authorities monitor the situation
Possible impacts include localised flooding of roads and bridges, minor motor accidents due to slippery roads and poor visibility, and difficult driving conditions on dirt roads. The SAWS also warned that hailstorms could cause further damage to vehicles and property.
Weather forecasters said the system should start clearing by midweek, though isolated showers may persist in coastal areas.
