Communities across KwaZulu-Natal are being urged to take precautions as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued multiple weather warnings for the province.
An Orange Level 6 warning for disruptive rainfall is in place across much of southern KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday and Friday.
SAWS forecaster Wisani Maluleke says there is an 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms, with rainfall expected to continue into Friday.
Maluleke has identified several municipalities that could be among the hardest hit, including eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Maphumulo, Mkhambathini, Ndwedwe, Ray Nkonyeni, uMdoni and Umzumbe.
A Yellow Level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall has also been issued for parts of eastern and southern KwaZulu-Natal, including the uMgungundlovu area.
SAWS has warned that the conditions could lead to flooding of roads and settlements, including formal and informal communities. The weather could also pose a danger to life, result in the displacement of residents and cause losses to livelihoods and livestock.
A separate warning for severe thunderstorms has been issued for north-western parts of the province, including areas around Ladysmith and Newcastle on Thursday.
The thunderstorms are expected to bring heavy downpours, damaging winds, excessive lightning and hail, which could pose a danger to residents.
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi says the province's Disaster Joint Operations Centre (JOC) has been activated to coordinate the response to potential emergencies.
The JOC brings together municipalities, law enforcement agencies, emergency services and other social partners.
Buthelezi has urged residents in affected areas to take the warnings seriously and follow any safety measures put in place by authorities.
He also warned motorists to exercise caution, saying some roads could be closed because of flooding.
Authorities are advising residents to avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve and to seek safe shelter if required.