News24 | Heavy rain in Durban, residents urged to stay indoors

Heavy rainfall is expected in parts of KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday.

• A level 2 weather warning was issued for Durban as well as the KZN south coast for Saturday.
• The eThekwini Municipality urged residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
• Disaster management teams are on standby.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has predicted heavy rainfall for parts of KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday, with the south coast expected to receive between 30mm and 50mm.

SAWS warned of isolated showers across the province and more concentrated rainfall along the south coast, leading to localised flooding due to the persistence of rainfall in that area.

The forecast model indicated the possibility of level 2 disruptive rainfall, with isolated showers continuing into the evening.

The persistent rainfall may result in the flooding of low-lying roads and bridges, formal and informal settlements, difficult driving conditions, damage to infrastructure, and the destruction of mud-based houses.

Motorists have been urged to exercise extreme caution and maintain a safe following distance on wet roads.

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The eThekwini Municipality’s Disaster Management Directorate and emergency services are on standby and monitoring the weather forecasts.

The municipality’s spokesperson, Gugu Sisilana, said the weather alert remained subject to change and that SAWS would update the warning accordingly.

“The City advises residents to exercise caution, to stay indoors if possible, and to avoid travelling, unless absolutely necessary.”

She urged residents in flood-prone areas, including informal settlements, to take the necessary safety precautions.

Sisilana advised members of the public not to cross overflowing rivers and streams.