The South African Weather Service has issued weather warnings for various parts of KZN. The weather warnings are still in place after heavy rains lashed the province on Sunday, leaving a trail of destruction around the uMshwathi Municipality.
The weather service issued a level 5 orange warning for severe thunderstorms with heavy downpours and damaging winds in the Monday forecast. Some roads and bridges were washed away, and search and rescue teams are on standby for any floodwater incidents.
Other affected areas in the province are the Alfred Duma Municipality, Ladysmith, eDumbe, Newcastle, Underberg and Giant’s Castle, just to name a few. KZN’s Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs department said “residents need to exercise extreme caution and avoid crossing swollen rivers or low-lying bridges, and monitor official weather updates”.
Weather forecast for today and tomorrow: 23-24 November
Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers, but widespread in the south-east today, and in the north-east tomorrow.
⚠️Orange level 5: Severe thunderstorms.
⚠️Yellow level 4,2: Severe thunderstorms. pic.twitter.com/ABYL5NUhcS— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) November 23, 2025
The ongoing heavy rain could lead to flooding of roads and settlements, particularly in informal and low-lying areas. This may also cause damage to infrastructure, agricultural production, and livestock in the northwestern parts of the province.
Disaster management officials will conduct a thorough assessment in affected communities to determine the extent of the damage and provide relief to residents once conditions permit safe operations.
With the rain and wind conditions still expected to continue, people living in low-lying areas are urged to take special care, as sudden floods might affect them. People should monitor the rising water levels and evacuate to a safer place or a higher spot when the water level rises.
Also see: Travelling with unpredictable weather? Here’s your packing checklist
