Pelting rain and strong winds swept across parts of KwaZulu-Natal on Friday, disrupting traffic and raising concerns over possible storm damage.
The South African Weather Service issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for the province’s western regions, cautioning residents about severe thunderstorms and hazardous conditions.
In a statement, the weather office said the storms are expected to bring heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail and excessive lightning, which could lead to localised flooding and damage to infrastructure and informal settlements.
“Severe thunderstorms accompanied by heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail and excessive lightning resulting in localised flooding and damage to infrastructure and settlements are expected over the western parts of KZN today,” the service said.
The inclement weather also caused disruptions on major routes in Durban, where waterlogged roads and poor visibility slowed traffic and created dangerous driving conditions.
Authorities have urged motorists and residents to exercise caution and to avoid flooded areas as further rainfall is expected.