Severe Weather Alert – As the weekend approaches, residents of South Africa’s Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) provinces are being urged to prepare for a bout of intense weather. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe weather alert, warning of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong wind gusts expected to impact several areas starting Friday evening and continuing through Sunday. According to SAWS, a deepening low-pressure system will move across the southern parts of the country, triggering widespread thunderstorm activity and rain showers. Winds may exceed 60-70 km/h in some coastal and inland regions, posing risks of structural damage, fallen trees, and localized flooding. Municipal disaster management teams are on high alert, and residents are being encouraged to take precautionary measures. The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has issued advisories to rural and urban communities, especially those in flood-prone or low-lying areas. The alert comes after a month of unseasonal weather patterns across southern Africa, with earlier warnings of sudden cold spells, torrential downpours, and inland wind surges. While storms are common during this transitional time of year, the projected intensity of this weekend’s system has elevated concerns. Below is a breakdown of the expected weather patterns, affected regions, safety guidelines, and emergency contact information.
Regions on High Alert for Severe Weather Alert
Residents across the affected provinces are advised to monitor local forecasts and avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours.
- Thunderstorms are likely in central and eastern parts of Eastern Cape.
- KZN’s northern and coastal belts will see the most intense rainfall.
- Strong wind gusts predicted along coastal stretches.
- Localised flooding possible in low-lying townships.
- Hailstorms cannot be ruled out in certain pockets.
- Visibility on roads may be severely reduced.
- Rural communities and informal settlements are especially vulnerable.
- Riverbanks and stormwater channels may overflow.
Severe Weather Alert – Provinces and Municipal Areas Expected to Be Affected
The table below outlines specific municipalities expected to bear the brunt of the weekend storm.
| Province | Region / Municipality | Weather Impact | Severity Level | Risk of Flooding | Wind Gusts | Storm Type | Action Advised |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Cape | OR Tambo District | Heavy Rain, Winds | High | Yes | 60-70 km/h | Thunderstorm | Avoid low areas |
| Eastern Cape | Nelson Mandela Bay | Rain, Thunder | Moderate | Yes | 55 km/h | Rain + Thunder | Stay indoors |
| Eastern Cape | Sarah Baartman District | Rain, Wind Gusts | High | Possible | 70 km/h | Thunderstorm | Secure loose items |
| KwaZulu-Natal | uThukela District | Storms, Rainfall | High | Yes | 60 km/h | Intense Rain | Avoid flood zones |
| KwaZulu-Natal | eThekwini (Durban) | Heavy Showers | Moderate | Yes | 55-60 km/h | Thunderstorm | Stay off roads |
| KwaZulu-Natal | uMkhanyakude District | Rain, Wind | High | Likely | 70 km/h | Strong Thunderstorms | Prepare evacuation bag |
| KwaZulu-Natal | Zululand District | Showers, Wind | Moderate | Unlikely | 50 km/h | Rain | Follow alerts closely |
| KwaZulu-Natal | iLembe District | Rain, Lightning | High | Yes | 60-65 km/h | Electrical Storms | Disconnect electronics |
Severe Weather Alert – Emergency Guidelines for Households in High-Risk Zones
To minimize risk and ensure safety during the storm, follow these household-level recommendations:
- Keep emergency kits with flashlights, water, and batteries.
- Avoid using electrical appliances during lightning.
- Disconnect home electronics if thunder is nearby.
- Secure roofs, outdoor furniture, and fragile structures.
- Avoid flooded roads or rivers at all costs.
- Check in with neighbors, especially elderly or disabled persons.
Severe Weather Alert – Precautionary Tips for Commuters and Travelers
Motorists and long-distance travelers in Eastern Cape and KZN should be especially cautious.
- Delay non-essential road trips until after the weekend.
- Drive with headlights on and maintain safe distances.
- Avoid parking under trees or powerlines.
- Use alternative routes if flooding is visible on roads.
- Refill fuel tanks early in case of supply delays.
Severe Weather Alert – Forecast Breakdown by Date and Time
The storm is expected to follow a phased pattern, with peak activity forecasted for specific times.
| Date | Time Slot | Region Focus | Expected Condition | SAWS Alert Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Friday (June 6) | 6 PM – 11 PM | Eastern Cape Inland | Initial Thunderstorms | Orange |
| Saturday (June 7) | 5 AM – 1 PM | KZN Coastal Areas | Heavy Rainfall & Wind | Red |
| Saturday | 1 PM – 9 PM | Eastern Cape Coastal | Strong Gusts & Rain | Orange |
| Sunday (June 8) | 6 AM – 2 PM | Northern KZN | Thunderstorm Cells | Yellow |
| Sunday | 2 PM – 8 PM | KZN Midlands | Residual Rain Showers | Yellow |
Who Is Most at Risk During This Weather Event?
The weekend storm system will particularly impact vulnerable groups across the two provinces.
Rural and Informal Settlement Residents
With limited infrastructure and poor drainage systems, these areas are at higher risk of flooding and shelter damage.
- Tin-roof structures may collapse in strong winds.
- Access roads may become impassable.
- Clean water supplies may be disrupted.
Children, Elderly, and Disabled Persons
Those unable to act swiftly during emergencies may suffer the most without proper support.
- Ensure caregivers are informed.
- Prepare emergency contact lists.
- Keep essential medicines accessible.
What Government and Municipal Agencies Are Doing
South African authorities have activated weather emergency protocols across the regions.
Disaster Management Units
Local municipalities have deployed field teams to monitor conditions in real time.
- Flood barriers and sandbags distributed.
- Early warning SMS systems activated.
- Community halls readied as emergency shelters.
SAWS and Public Broadcasting
The South African Weather Service will provide live updates and storm tracking via:
- Radio and television bulletins
- SAWS official app and website
- Social media weather handles
Community Helplines and Emergency Numbers
Save these important contact numbers in case of storm-related emergencies.
| Service | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| SAWS Weather Emergency Line | 082 162 |
| KZN Provincial Disaster Office | 0800 786 911 |
| Eastern Cape Disaster Hotline | 043 604 5411 |
| National Ambulance Service | 10177 |
| SAPS Emergency | 10111 |
| Eskom Faults (Power Outage) | 08600 37566 |
Residents are advised to stay alert and prioritize safety as weather conditions develop over the weekend. Monitor local updates and act swiftly if advised by authorities. While storms of this nature are not uncommon, preparedness remains the best defense against harm or loss.
FAQs
Q1: When will the severe weather start?
The storm is expected to begin late Friday (June 6) and intensify through Saturday and Sunday.
Q2: Which areas are most at risk?
Parts of Eastern Cape (e.g., OR Tambo, Nelson Mandela Bay) and KZN (e.g., uThukela, Durban) are on high alert.
Q3: Is school or work likely to be disrupted?
It depends on local alerts. Check with schools or employers for updates. Travel disruptions are highly likely.
Q4: What precautions should be taken?
Avoid flooded areas, stay indoors, and secure all loose outdoor items. Monitor news alerts closely.
Q5: Will load shedding be impacted?
There is no confirmed link yet, but weather-related outages are possible due to fallen trees and line damage.