KwaZulu-Natal residents may experience some relief from days of extreme heat as cooler conditions are expected to set in, although the South African Weather Service (Saws) has warned that severe thunderstorms could bring new risks to parts of the province. Saws has issued a yellow level 2 severe thunderstorm warning for Thursday and Friday. The agency cautioned that heavy downpours, damaging winds, excessive lightning and hail may result in localised flooding and damage to infrastructure and settlements, particularly in western parts of the province.
According to Saws, isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are expected across the province, with some storms becoming severe over western areas. “Severe thunderstorms accompanied by heavy downpours, damaging winds, excessive lightning and hail resulting in localised flooding and damage to infrastructure and settlements are expected over western KZN today and tomorrow,” Saws said. The storms come after several days of intense heat across the province, with temperatures remaining in the high 30s in some areas.
Pietermaritzburg residents recorded temperatures as high as 39°C on Monday, with daytime highs remaining above 30°C throughout the week. Saws warned that the storms could lead to localised flooding of susceptible roads and bridges, minor motor vehicle accidents due to slippery roads and poor visibility, and injuries caused by flying debris or hail. Residents are advised to avoid travelling on low-lying roads and bridges, stay indoors where possible, avoid outdoor activities during storms, and ensure pets, vehicles and livestock are sheltered.
Read Full Article on The Witness
