Danger: strong winds to accompany cold front
Members of the public have been urged to secure roof sheeting, doors and windows to prevent damage.
DURBANITES have been warned to prepare for the gale-force winds predicted to hit the province tonight. The strong winds and heavy sea swells are expected to last until Saturday.
Forecasts have predicted that the province will experience strong winds of 40km/h by this afternoon, which could reach up to 70km/h, said eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Head, Tozi Mthethwa, in a statement today.
“This could result in damage to structures, cause trees to fall and result in traffic congestion where these impact on roadways,” he added.
Members of the public, particularly those in the informal settlements, have been urged to secure roof sheeting, doors and windows to prevent damage.
The KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board also reported that large swells and wave heights between three and four metres have been predicted – which could pose a danger to bathers and surfers.
The swells also pose a danger to the shark safety gear, and as a result the Sharks Board has chosen to remove the gear until the sea conditions have settled.
All residents are advised to be cautious during this period and stay indoors for safety purposes.
The South African Weather Service said they would monitor the situation during this period and would issue subsequent updates.
The Emergency Control and Disaster Management Unit is monitoring the situation. All emergency calls should be logged to 031 361 0000.
