AMID a Level 2 warning from the South African Weather Service (SAWS) for disruptive rain with widespread showers and thundershowers set to hit eThekwini and some parts of KwaZulu-Natal from Thursday, March 13, through to Friday, March 14, the municipality has set up a temporary emergency number while the other is offline.
The 031 322 4457 number will temporarily replace the city’s emergency line of 031 361 0000. On Tuesday, eThekwini Municipality spokesperson, Nondumiso Mathomane, said the original emergency number was currently offline and that they are “urging residents to use the temporary number to report emergencies until further notice”.
This comes as the city is bracing itself for another bout of heavy rains that in recent weeks have caused deadly flooding and serious damage to infrastructure. The forecast indicates a Level 2 disruptive rain with widespread showers and thundershowers across KZN from midnight on Thursday until Friday.
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“These thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by disruptive rain leading to localised flooding. Models are indicating high likelihood for heavy rains over the eastern parts where significant impacts can be expected,” said Mathomane. “This warning may result in the flooding of roads and settlements, poor driving conditions, damage to infrastructure, and the destruction of mud-based houses.”
She said the city’s Disaster Management and emergency services are on alert and are monitoring the forecasts. “This alert remains subject to change and the SAWS will update the warning accordingly today, March 12, if all is still on track. The City advises residents to exercise caution, to stay indoors if possible, and to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. The public is reminded to not attempt to cross rivers and streams. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution and maintain a safe following distance while driving on wet roads,” said Mathomane.
In cases of emergencies, the public can contact the City’s temporary emergency number on 031 322 4457.
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