Severe thunderstorms expected in KwaZulu-Natal
Disaster management teams in the province have been placed on alert.
South Africa – Durban – 23 April 2019 – Deadly; unforgiving downpours claimed several lives in the Durban floods. Picture: Leon Lestrade/African News Agency (ANA)
The South African Weather Service said that severe thunderstorms are expected over the northeastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday evening.
The weather service said the thunderstorms were expected to extend to Thursday morning with a possibility of heavy downpours and strong damaging winds.
Watch:09/10/2019 20h00 TO:10/10/2019 04h00 Severe Thunderstorms- are expected over the north-eastern parts of KZN from this evening (Wednesday) extending into tomorrow morning with possible heavy downpours and strong damaging winds.
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) October 9, 2019
The alert by the SA Weather Service prompted the province’s MEC for cooperative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta), Sipho Hlomuka, to place disaster management teams on alert.
In a statement on Wednesday, Hlomuka urged all “vulnerable communities” to pay close attention to changes in the weather conditions and to take necessary safety steps.
“KZN is suffering from the effects of climate change, which has made it difficult to predict weather patterns. Our residents must take the necessary steps, which include seeking appropriate cover in the event of heavy downpours,” Hlomuka said.
The MEC said that disaster management teams would keep a close eye on areas prone to localised flooding as a result of heavy downpours.
“Motorists are urged to drive carefully as roads can be slippery due to wet weather. Parents and teachers must ensure that children in their care remain safe at all times during challenging weather conditions.”
Earlier this year the province was hit by devastating floods that left a number of people dead, while others were forced to move from their homes.
(Compiled by Makhosandile Zulu)
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