Severe rainfall warning for KwaZulu-Natal: Prepare for flooding and hazardous conditions
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive rainfall across large parts of KwaZulu-Natal, cautioning that residents should prepare for possible localised flooding, dangerous driving conditions, and structural damage in vulnerable areas.
The warning is in effect from Tuesday at 1pm until Wednesday at 3.59pm.
According to the forecasters, rainfall exceeding 60 mm is expected along the south coast on Tuesday, gradually shifting to the north coast Wednesday.
Towns such as Mandeni, Eshowe, and Umhlathuze are likely to bear the brunt of persistent showers, with significant flooding risks.
“Scattered showers and rain are expected over the KZN but widespread along the south coast today. Isolated showers and rain are expected but scattered along the north coast tomorrow,” the weather office stated.
It added that the sustained rainfall could overwhelm drainage in low-lying areas, especially in informal settlements, resulting in potentially hazardous conditions.
Rain probabilities remain high, ranging from 70% to 90% across affected areas, with Richards Bay (RB), Durban (ETH), and Port Shepstone (PMT) highlighted as key zones under monitoring.
Motorists have been urged to exercise extreme caution as difficult driving conditions are expected on dirt roads and bridges.
“Difficult driving conditions can be expected on dirt roads and minor motor vehicle accidents due to poor visibility and slippery roads,” the SAWS warned.
Structural damage to mud-built houses remains a concern in rural and peri-urban communities.
The alert follows Monday’s Yellow Level 1 warning for severe thunderstorms and Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive rainfall, which already impacted parts of the Eastern Cape and southern KwaZulu-Natal.
While rainfall will persist into Wednesday, the system is expected to shift northward, narrowing its impact to coastal districts.
The SAWS has advised residents to remain vigilant, avoid crossing flooded roads or bridges, and stay tuned to official channels for further updates.
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