Umgeni Municipality says assessments are underway after a severe hailstorm struck the Hilton area on Tuesday, pelting the region with golf ball-sized hail and causing widespread disruption. Residents reported vehicles being damaged as people scrambled for shelter in homes and shopping centres.
The storm arrived as most of KwaZulu-Natal remained under a Yellow Level 4 severe thunderstorm warning, with the north-eastern parts of the province placed under a more serious Orange Level 5 alert.
Umgeni Mayor Chris Pappas confirmed that the storm triggered power outages affecting Hilton, Winterskloof, and surrounding areas.
“Preliminary reports indicate that despite the large amounts of rain and hail, only minor damage has occurred, with the most significant impact on roads and stormwater infrastructure,” Pappas said. “The municipality will continue investigations and compile a full report.”
The South African Weather Service has issued a Yellow Level 1 warning for severe thunderstorms in north-eastern KZN for Wednesday. Forecasters warn of heavy downpours, strong winds, small hail, and intense lightning as storm conditions persist.