Key Takeaways
- The KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC has warned residents in the north of the province to exercise extreme caution due to the risk of localized flooding caused by persistent rainfall.
- A Level 2 alert has been issued for disruptive rainfall expected on Saturday, 17 January, with heavy downpours likely to continue into Sunday.
- The provincial disaster management centre is closely monitoring conditions in the Zululand District and Umkhanyakude District, where rising water levels have already begun to affect several communities.
- Residents are advised not to attempt to cross flooded roads or overflowing bridges, and to consider moving to higher ground as a precaution.
- The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management Centre remains on high alert and has activated response and mitigation measures to protect lives and support vulnerable communities.
Introduction to the Weather Warning
The KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has urged residents in the north of the province to exercise extreme caution as persistent rainfall raises the risk of localized flooding. This warning comes after the South African Weather Service issued a Level 2 alert for disruptive rainfall expected on Saturday, 17 January, with heavy downpours likely to continue into Sunday. The warning is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of residents, especially those living in low-lying areas and floodplains.
Affected Areas and Risks
According to the department, the provincial disaster management centre is closely monitoring conditions in the Zululand District and Umkhanyakude District, where rising water levels have already begun to affect several communities. Parts of Umhlabuyalingana, Nongoma, and sections of Jozini are under pressure, with low-lying roads and bridges becoming increasingly difficult to navigate. The MEC warned residents not to attempt to cross flooded roads or overflowing bridges, saying such actions place lives at serious risk. The risk of flooding is not limited to these areas, and residents are advised to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Government Response and Precautions
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management Centre remains on high alert and has activated response and mitigation measures alongside other government departments and emergency services. These measures are aimed at protecting lives, supporting vulnerable communities, and ensuring a rapid response should conditions worsen. Buthelezi cautioned that weather conditions are expected to deteriorate further in the coming week and urged residents living in floodplains and low-lying areas to consider moving to higher ground as a precaution. He also appealed to parents, guardians, and educators to ensure that learners use safe and accessible routes when traveling to and from school during the period of unstable weather.
Comparison to Other Provinces
While KwaZulu-Natal has so far avoided the worst of the severe weather affecting other parts of the country, the MEC conveyed condolences to families in neighboring provinces who have lost loved ones due to recent floods. The South African Weather Service has issued multiple impact-based warnings as a slow-moving system brings heavy downpours to the eastern and northeastern regions. Limpopo is of greatest concern, where widespread and disruptive rain is expected, particularly in the eastern parts. Rainfall here is likely to be intense and persistent, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying areas, damage to infrastructure, and possible closure of major roads and bridges.
Conclusion and Call to Action
In conclusion, the KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC has warned residents in the north of the province to exercise extreme caution due to the risk of localized flooding caused by persistent rainfall. The department will continue to provide updates as the situation develops, and residents are advised to heed safety warnings, avoid large bodies of water, and follow guidance from local authorities. As Buthelezi said, "As government, we remain committed to ensuring that our province navigates these difficult weather conditions with minimal disruption and loss." Residents are urged to take necessary precautions and stay informed to ensure their safety during this period of unstable weather.
