KZN warned of possible heavy rains this weekend

The KwaZulu-Natal government has been warned of possible heavy rains over the weekend, Premier Sihle Zikalala said on Thursday.

This as the SA Weather Service (Saws) has warned of very cold weather over the province this weekend.

Saws on Thursday night issued a warning for heavy rain this weekend. The rain will start on Friday afternoon with showers and thundershowers followed on Saturday by showers and heavy rain. Temperatures will also drop.

Underberg and Giant’s Castle are expected to reach a maximum temperature of only 8°C, Pietermaritzburg will reach 16 degrees and Durban 18. Saws said the cold front is expected to pass through KZN on Friday afternoon, accompanied by a steep upper trough that will develop into a cut-off low on Saturday.

“As a result widespread showers and thundershowers are expected over most parts of the province, but scattered over the south-western parts.

“Models are indicating significant amount of rainfall [20-40mm] over northern parts of KZN on Saturday that could result in localised flooding,” Saws said.

AREAS THAT COULD BE AFFECTED

Abaqulusi, Alfred Duma — Indaka, Alfred Duma — Ladysmith, Big Five Hlabisa — Hlabisa, Big Five Hlabisa — Hluhluwe, Dannhauser, eDumbe, eMadlangeni, Endumeni, Jozini, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Maphumulo, Msinga, Mthonjaneni, Mtubatuba, Ndwedwe, Newcastle, Nkandla, Nongoma, Nquthu, Ulundi, Umhlabuyalingana, uMhlathuze, uMlalazi, uMshwathi, Umvoti and uPhongolo.

Saws said localised flooding of susceptible formal/informal settlements and low-lying bridges is possible.

“Difficult driving conditions can be expected on dirt roads and minor motor vehicle accidents due to poor visibility and slippery roads. Localised damages to mud-based houses, localised mudslides and soil erosion are possible,” they warned.

They warned residents in affected areas to avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above your ankles.

“In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level. In rural areas protect/relocate animals to a safe place on higher ground.

“Take caution when travelling on roads as potholes may be filled with water and there may be sinkholes.”