Level 5 weather warning issued for disruptive rain in parts of SA

A level 5 WARNING for continued rain and showers in parts of South Africa was issued for Wednesday. 

By: Corné van Zyl

THE LEVEL 5 WARNING WAS ISSUED FOR DISRUPTIVE RAIN

According to the SA Weather Service (SAWS) a cut-off low and ridging high-pressure system is set to bring an influx of moisture, leading to continuous showers and rain in places over the Eastern Cape. 

“At least 30-70mm of rainfall is expected in places over the eastern parts of the Eastern Cape.” 

AT LEAST 30-70MM OF RAIN IS EXPECTED

It furthermore warned that the impacts of these weather conditions could include danger to life, flooding of roads, settlements and bridges with disruptions of traffic flow and municipal services, as well as damage to property, infrastructure and loss of livelihood. 

“Mudslides and rockfalls are possible and damage to mud-based and make-shift houses and structures.” 

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HERE ARE THE AREAS THAT WILL BE AFFECTED

These areas are expected to be affected by the level 5 weather warning: 

• Mbizana / Bizana
• Ingquza Hill / Lusikisiki
• Ntabankulu
• Nyandeni / Libode
• Port St Johns

The SAWS advised the public to postpone travel arrangements until it is safer to travel. 

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“Avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams. Monitor the weather conditions and if need be, identify areas to safely store valuable items from flood water.” 

ANOTHER WEATHER WARNING WAS ISSUED FOR WEDNESDAY

Meanwhile, a level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms was issued for parts of Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal for Wednesday.   

• eMadlangeni / Utrecht
• eDumbe / Paulpietersburg
• Abaqulusi / Vryheid/Abaqulusi
• Dannhauser
• Newcastle
• Alfred Duma – Indaka / Ekuvukeni
• Msinga / Pomeroy
• Umvoti / Greytown
• Okhahlamba / Royal National Park
• Inkosi Langalibalele – Sobabili / Sobabili/Goodhom
• Greater Kokstad / Kokstad
• Dr N. Dlamini-Zuma – Underberg / Underberg
• Impendle
• Richmond
• uMshwathi / New Hanover

“Take caution or avoid traveling on bridges and roads in low-lying areas as these may be susceptible to flooding and there may be sinkholes. Avoid outdoor activities as lightning and flooding may result in injuries and death. Avoid being in an open field, as there may be flying debris. If possible, stay indoors well clear of windows, shelter pets, and cover vehicles.”

SAWS

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