KwaZulu-Natal faces two days of severe thunderstorms, flooding and hail - IOL

A yellow Level 4 warning is in place across much of KwaZulu-Natal, with heavy rain, hail, flooding and damaging thunderstorms expected from Thursday afternoon into Friday.

A yellow Level 4 warning is in place across much of KwaZulu-Natal, with heavy rain, hail, flooding and damaging thunderstorms expected from Thursday afternoon into Friday.

The South African Weather Service (Saws) issued the warning, which came into effect at 2pm on Thursday and remains valid until midnight on Friday.

A separate yellow Level 2 warning has also been issued for parts of central KwaZulu-Natal for Thursday.

The Level 4 warning covers most of the province on Thursday, excluding the north-east, and northern parts on Friday.

Affected areas include eThekwini, Newcastle, Ladysmith, Estcourt, Underberg, Howick, Impendle, Mooi River, Jozini, Hluhluwe, Mtubatuba, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Msinga, Dannhauser and AbaQulusi.

The weather office attributed the expected conditions to an upper-air trough and a surface trough over the central parts of the country, which are likely to bring scattered showers and thundershowers to the province.

The severe weather could cause widespread disruption, particularly in low-lying areas and communities vulnerable to flooding.

Under the Level 4 warning, flooding of settlements, roads and bridges is possible, alongside damage to infrastructure and property.

Fast-flowing streams, fallen trees blocking major roads and hazardous driving conditions are also among the expected impacts.

The Level 2 warning highlights the possibility of localised flooding, slippery roads, poor visibility and minor vehicle accidents. Large amounts of hail are also possible.

Saws has advised residents to remain indoors during severe thunderstorms and avoid unnecessary travel.

Motorists are urged not to attempt crossing flooded roads or swollen rivers. Anyone whose vehicle becomes trapped in floodwater should abandon it and move to higher ground.

Residents are also advised to move valuables above anticipated flood levels, relocate livestock to safer ground and shelter pets.

People should avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms and seek safe shelter, particularly as damaging lightning and hail pose a risk of injury.

Motorists should exercise caution around bridges, low-lying roads and areas prone to flooding and sinkholes.