Weather warning for SEVERE thunderstorms in KwaZulu-Natal

The SA Weather Service has issued a yellow level 2 weather warning for SEVERE thunderstorms in KwaZulu-Natal TODAY.

The SA Weather Service has issued weather warning for KwaZulu-Natal today, 9 April.

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Severe Weather warning for thundershowers

The SA Weather Service has issued a yellow level 2 weather warning for severe thunderstorms that are expected to cause localised flooding and damage to infrastructure over the southern parts of Kwa-Zulu Natal.

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The impacts of these thunderstorms may include:

• Localised flooding of low-lying settlements, bridges, and susceptible roads
• Localised damage to infrastructure, settlements, and livestock
• Falling trees may block minor roads, and difficult driving conditions are expected due to slippery roads and poor visibility

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HOW TO STAY SAFE DURING HEAVY RAIN

During extreme rain, it is important to take every precaution to stay safe; here are a few tips.

• During storms, people living in low-lying areas must take special care as sudden floods might affect them.
• They should monitor the rising water levels and evacuate to a safer place or higher spot when the water level rises.
• Use other routes and do not cross through flooded roads or bridges.
• Avoid crossing low-lying bridges, streams, and rivers.
• Never try to walk, swim, or drive in swift-flowing water as it can sweep you off your feet.
• Motorists must be very careful and avoid driving through flooded areas.
• Drive to and park at safer areas.
• Monitor weather alerts on radio and television.
• Contact municipal disaster management centers, the nearest police station, or call the national emergency numbers (112, 10177, or 107) when faced with threats.
• Do not try to drive over a low-water bridge if water is flowing strongly across it and the ground is not visible.
• Teach children about the dangers of floods.

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• Keep important documents in a water-resistant container.
• Keep cell phones in close proximity and have emergency numbers at hand.
• Be especially vigilant at night as it is harder to recognize potentially deadly road hazards.
• Do not camp or park cars along rivers or washes, especially during heavy rains or thunderstorms.
• If on foot, be aware that low moving water can also be dangerous during flood conditions.
• Do not walk into moving water.

“Communities are encouraged to try to avoid contact with any flood waters as it may be contaminated with raw sewage, oil, or other dangerous substances and may also be charged with electricity from fallen power lines.” the statement by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs concluded.

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