Level 2 Weather Warning Issued for Durban and Parts of KwaZulu-Natal
Residents urged to prepare for severe thunderstorms, hail, damaging winds and localised flooding as emergency services remain on high alert.
The eThekwini Municipality has urged residents to take immediate precautions following a Level 2 severe weather warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).
The warning remains in effect until the evening of Monday, 26 October, with Durban and surrounding areas expected to be among the hardest-hit regions in KwaZulu-Natal.
According to the municipality, widespread thunderstorms are forecast across the province, bringing the risk of heavy rainfall, strong winds, lightning strikes and hail.
Severe Storms Expected
SAWS has warned that severe thunderstorms could result in:
- Heavy downpours
- Damaging winds
- Excessive lightning
- Large and small hail
- Localised flooding
Officials said these conditions could pose a threat to lives, homes, businesses and public infrastructure.
The municipality warned that roads, bridges and low-lying areas could become flooded, creating hazardous conditions for motorists and pedestrians.
Motorists Urged to Exercise Caution
Drivers have been advised to remain vigilant and adjust their driving habits during the severe weather period.
Authorities recommend:
- Reducing speed on wet roads
- Increasing following distances
- Switching on headlights in poor visibility
- Avoiding flooded roads and bridges
- Delaying non-essential travel where possible
Poor visibility and slippery road surfaces are expected to increase the risk of vehicle collisions.
Residents in Flood-Prone Areas Warned
People living in low-lying or flood-prone communities have been urged to take preventative action.
The municipality advised residents to identify safe evacuation routes and be prepared to move to higher ground if conditions deteriorate.
Emergency officials also encouraged communities to secure loose outdoor items and remain indoors during severe thunderstorm activity where possible.
Emergency Services on High Alert
The City of Durban has activated its Disaster Management Directorate and emergency services in preparation for potential weather-related incidents.
Response teams are monitoring conditions closely and stand ready to respond to reports of flooding, storm damage and other emergencies.
The latest warning comes as KwaZulu-Natal continues to face weather-related challenges following several severe flooding events in recent years that caused extensive damage to infrastructure and communities.
Potential Impacts
A Level 2 warning indicates a possibility of:
- Localised property damage
- Infrastructure disruptions
- Flooding of roads and low-lying areas
- Traffic disruptions
- Damage from hail and strong winds
- Power interruptions caused by lightning or fallen infrastructure
Residents are encouraged to monitor official weather updates and follow instructions from emergency authorities throughout the warning period.
With thunderstorms expected to intensify at times, officials say preparedness and caution remain the best protection against weather-related risks.
