The South African Weather Service has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms expected to affect parts of KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday.
The alert warns of damaging winds, large hail and heavy downpours associated with a cut-off low-pressure system moving across the country.
In response, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance has deployed disaster management teams to southern parts of the province in preparation for the adverse weather.
Municipalities expected to be impacted include eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, Msunduzi Local Municipality, and Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality.
Department spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila said the severe weather conditions are likely to persist until Wednesday morning and could result in localised flooding.
“These conditions pose a risk to infrastructure, including bridges and settlements,” Mzila said.
He also urged residents to exercise caution as temperatures drop with the onset of winter, particularly when using heating devices.
“The department warns against the unsupervised use of braziers and generators, and cautions parents not to leave children unattended near heaters due to fire and respiratory risks,” he added.
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has assured residents that precautionary measures are in place.
“All disaster management teams across municipalities have finalised winter readiness plans to protect lives and infrastructure. We are coordinating with social partners and other departments to ensure a rapid and integrated response to any emergencies,” Mzila said on behalf of the MEC.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines during the severe weather conditions.