Disaster management teams have been placed on high alert by MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) in KwaZulu-Natal, Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi, following a level eight weather warning, reported Arrive Alive.
According to the weather alert issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), disruptive rains are expected in parts of KwaZulu-Natal from Monday, 6 January to Wednesday, 8 January 2025.
Rainfall in excess of 150mm is expected in KwaZulu-Natal on Monday, possibly persisting till Tuesday, 7 January. These are the areas that could be most affected in the province.
LEVEL EIGHT WEATHER WARNING FOR KWAZULU-NATAL
The weather alert states that the rainfall could lead to flooding of settlements, schools, roads, bridges, sinkholes, mudslides, and erosion. Other reported impacts include:
- Danger to life as a result of fast flowing streams and deep water.
- Flooding and closure of major roads.
- Difficult driving conditions.
- Damage of infrastructure and displacement of affected communities.
- Widespread damage to mud-based houses.
AREAS EXPECTED TO BE AFFECTED
- Big Five Hlabisa Hlabisa
- Big Five Hlabisa Hluhluwe
- Ethekwini
- Jozini
- KwaDukuza
- Mandeni
- Maphumulo
- Mkhambathini
- Mthonjaneni
- Ndwedwe
- Nongoma
- Ray Nkonyeni
- Umdoni
- Umhlabuyalingana
- uMhlathuze
- uMlalazi
- Umzumbe
- uPhongolo
ALL RESIDENTS IN THE PROVINCE TO TAKE HEED OF THE WEATHER WARNING
Despite certain areas being listed as most at risk of being affected by the disruptive rains, all residents in KwaZulu-Natal have been asked to take heed of the weather warning. All stakeholders including SANRAL, Disaster Management Practitioners and South African Police Services revealed their state of readiness on 5 January 2025.
WHAT TO DO TO ENSURE SAFETY?
- Stay indoors and off the road.
- Avoid crossing flooded roads or swollen streams where water is above your ankles.
- If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon it and get to higher ground.
- Take caution when travelling or avoid it.
- Avoid travelling on bridges and roads in low-lying areas.
- Maintain visibility by keeping windscreens clear.
- When driving, keep vehicle headlights on and drive slowly when there are showers.
DO YOU LIVE IN KWAZULU-NATAL AND WHAT SAFETY MEASURES HAVE YOU PUT IN PLACE?
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