Rain is often seen as a blessing in the African culture but for KwaZulu Natal it is a case of the opposite. Following a tornado that swept through Inanda and surrounds yesterday afternoon,.there is a scare of heavy rainfall reported in some parts of KwaZulu-Natal with the South Coast of KZN being placed on an Orange Level 6 alert, which is the second highest warning level.The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has also issued a warning for floods as a result of heavy rains. Last year, over 400 people lost their lives due to heavy rains that also left many homeless and stranded.
Durban - Mini #Tornado event in the Bhambayi area ( between Inanda and Phoenix) pic.twitter.com/6q2ppYAynj
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The department's spokesperson Nonala Ndlovu said while the eThekwini metro, along with coastal areas, will experience widespread showers and thundershowers, the intensity will be moderate, with scattered rainfall.
"Margate and Port Edward have already reported rainfall measurements of 89mm and 49mm, respectively, since Monday.However, weather models indicate that additional rainfall is expected over the Ugu District Municipality, gradually subsiding early today."
Ndlovu said the possibilities of flooding are highly likely and therefore, the public should beware of flooding of roads, bridges, and settlements, both formal and informal.
"Fast-flowing streams and deep waters pose a significant threat to life.Moreover, the flooding may cause major disruptions to traffic flows, impacting essential services such as water, electricity and communication. Additionally, there is a risk of damage to mud houses in the affected areas,"Ndlovu further warned.
Ndlovu said the department has deployed all disaster management services in the affected areas, she added.
"The teams are ready to respond promptly and effectively wherever necessary. We strongly advise residents to closely monitor water levels and relocate to higher ground to avoid any potential disasters. Should residents experience any difficulties, they are urged to contact their local leadership."
She also warned motorists to be cautious.
"Where possible we urge residents to postpone non-essential travel until the inclement weather subsides."
