KwaZulu-Natal residents are being urged to exercise caution along the coast as strong winds and large waves are expected from Thursday afternoon.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for damaging winds and waves of up to 4.5 metres along the coastline between Port Edward and Richards Bay.
The warning also covers parts of the adjacent interior, including the Ugu District, eThekwini, iLembe and parts of the King Cetshwayo District.
According to forecasters, waves of up to 4.5 metres are expected from Thursday afternoon into the early hours of Friday morning. Damaging winds are expected to continue into Friday evening.
Wind speeds could reach around 40 kilometres per hour, with gusts of up to 70 kilometres per hour.
SAWS says the expected conditions could cause localised disruptions at ports and small harbours, as well as interfere with activities along beachfront areas.
There is also a risk of localised damage to settlements and infrastructure in parts of the adjacent interior on Thursday.
Forecasters said the impact is expected to be minor at this stage, adding that conditions could be less dangerous if a land breeze develops.
Meanwhile, a 30% chance of rain has been forecast across most parts of KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday, although areas including eThekwini, Ugu and iLembe are expected to remain largely dry.
Residents and visitors are advised to remain cautious near the coastline and to follow weather and safety warnings.