KwaZulu-Natal authorities have activated the province’s Disaster Joint Operations Centre (JOC) as disruptive rainfall is expected across parts of the province from Thursday to Friday.
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi is urging residents to remain vigilant as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 4 warning for disruptive rain.
The warning is expected to come into effect in the early hours of Thursday and continue through Friday, with the potential for flooding of roads and settlements, particularly in southern parts of the province.
Municipalities expected to be affected include Ray Nkonyeni, Msunduzi, eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Kokstad, Impendle, Maphumulo, Mkhambathini, Inkosi Langalibalele, Ndwedwe, Richmond, Umdoni, uMlalazi, uMngeni, uMshwathi, uMuziwabantu, Umvoti, Umzimkhulu and Umzumbe.
Authorities warn that the heavy rainfall could cause major disruptions to traffic, with some roads potentially flooded or closed.
The province is also preparing for possible damage to homes and infrastructure, loss of livestock and livelihoods, and the displacement of communities.
Fast-flowing water and deep flooding could pose a serious risk to residents, while some communities may become temporarily inaccessible.
Buthelezi says the JOC, which includes municipalities, law enforcement agencies, emergency services and other social partners, has been activated to coordinate the response.
Municipalities are also preparing safe spaces for residents living in informal settlements and low-lying areas who may need to be evacuated.
“We are encouraging communities to take safety measures, as these rains pose a serious threat to life,” Buthelezi says.
He says residents should comply with safety measures issued by authorities and avoid unnecessary travel during the severe weather.
“We further urge motorists to remain cautious, as some roads may be closed due to flooding. Avoid being on the roads unless necessary until the weather clears,” he says.
Disaster management teams will continue monitoring conditions across the province and respond to incidents as they arise.