The South African Weather Services (SAWS) has raised the alert level to orange, Level 6, the highest warning level due to the high risk of flooding that may damage roads, bridges, formal and informal settlements in KwaZulu Natal.

The province is expected to receive more than 50 millimetres of rain. "Orange level 6 warning issued for Monday, October 16, 2023. Heavy and disruptive rainfall can be expected along the KZN coast and its adjacent interior, particularly the southern coast. Widespread flooding is possible," SAWS said in a statement. The weather service also issued a level five warning for the Eastern Cape for Monday. The King Sabata Dalindyebo, Nyandeni, Port St Johns, Ingquza and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipalities were expected to receive between 50 and 100 millimetres of rain.

KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs spokesperson, Siboniso Mngadi, cautioned residents regarding heavy rainfall that could potentially lead to flooding in coastal and midlands districts of the province. "The anticipated rainfall is expected to persist from Monday afternoon until midnight and could result in damage within the following municipalities: eThekwini Metro, Ugu, Harry Gwala, Ilembe, and Umgungundlovu District Municipalities," he said. He added that the department has convened an urgent meeting with the Joint Operation Cluster which includes all municipalities that may be affected and disaster team to put proactive measures in place. "Furthermore, all Disaster Management Centere have been activated to monitor the weather pattern and risk and respond to any unforeseen events," said Mngadi.

Residents in low-lying areas are advised to relocate to safer areas if necessary. "We appeal to all residents to closely monitor the situation and take precautionary measures to ensure the safety of lives during this period of heavy rainfall." Livestock owners are urged to find secure locations and adhere to safety measures that will be communicated through disaster centres.

SAWS also issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive rain leading to localised flooding of susceptible settlements, roads, low-lying areas and bridges is expected in Gauteng. For Johannesburg, temperatures are expected to reach a high of 17?C with isolated thunderstorms. Pretoria will see a maximum of 19?C.