Durban: The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms, forecasting heavy downpours over the north-western parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
According to South African Government News Agency, the downpours could lead to ‘flooding of roads and settlements’. A cut-off low pressure system extending to the surface is expected to position itself over the central interior of the country tomorrow, with a surface high pressure system east of the country resulting in onshore flow. Consequently, isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are anticipated over KZN. Some of these thunderstorms may escalate to severe levels over the western parts of the region, accompanied by heavy, damaging winds, excessive lightning, and hail.
The potential impacts of the thunderstorms include flooding of roads and bridges, as well as formal and informal settlements. Hail could lead to infrastructure damage, while fast-flowing water and streams pose a danger to life. Additionally, major travel disruptions, route obstructions, and incidents are anticipated, along with potential damage or loss of infrastructure and settlements.
SAWS advises, “If possible, stay indoors and off the roads, avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above your ankles. If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon it and climb to higher ground. In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level. If possible, stay indoors away from metal objects. Do not seek shelter under trees or tall objects. Do not go fishing or play golf as both the golf clubs and fishing rods are a good conductor of electricity.”