The South African Weather Service has issued a Level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms across much of KwaZulu-Natal, effective from Friday until midnight, as forecasters predict widespread showers and potentially damaging weather conditions.
The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality has urged residents to remain alert and take precautionary measures, warning that intense thunderstorms are expected to affect most parts of the province.
Weather forecaster Edward Engelbrecht said the alert covers nearly the entire province, with the exception of the northeastern regions.
A Level 4 warning indicates a low likelihood of severe impacts but the potential for significant disruption. Engelbrecht said storms may bring strong, damaging winds, frequent lightning and heavy downpours, which could lead to flooding on vulnerable roads and low-lying areas. The unstable weather is linked to a cold front that has moved south of the country, creating conditions favourable for afternoon and evening thunderstorms.
SAWS cautioned that the storms could also produce large volumes of small hail and intense rainfall, posing risks to infrastructure, property, vehicles, livestock and livelihoods.
Authorities have advised residents to monitor weather updates, avoid flooded roads and secure loose items outdoors, as conditions could deteriorate rapidly.
In short: if the sky looks moody, it probably means business.