Floods, snow and heavy rain expected as KZN residents urged to stay alert

Residents of KwaZulu-Natal are urged to prepare for heavy rain and potential flooding as severe weather warnings are issued. KwaZulu-Natal residents have been urged to take severe weather warnings seriously as heavy rainfall, possible flooding and snowfall are expected to affect parts of the province on Monday and Tuesday. Chairperson of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), Marlaine Nair, called on communities to remain vigilant and follow official weather advisories issued by theSouth African Weather Service (SAWS)and disaster management authorities.

The warning comes amid forecasts of disruptive weather conditions that could threaten lives, damage property and place pressure on critical infrastructure across affected areas. Nair stressed the importance of taking precautionary measures and avoiding unnecessary risks during hazardous weather conditions. “KwaZulu-Natal knows how quickly severe weather can place lives, homes and infrastructure at risk.

Taking warnings seriously and acting early can help prevent avoidable loss and tragedy,” she said. Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel in areas affected by severe weather and to never attempt to drive or walk through flooded roads, low-lying bridges or swollen rivers. Nair also highlighted the crucial role played by emergency responders and frontline personnel who may be called upon to assist communities during the adverse weather. “The Committee recognises the disaster management personnel, emergency services, municipal workers, law enforcement officers, healthcare workers and volunteers who may be called upon to assist communities,” she said.