By Nkosana Khumalo
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has issued a stark warning to residents as the province prepares for severe weather conditions, which are set to begin on Friday and extend into the weekend. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has flagged a Level 6 disruptive snow warning, particularly affecting the uThukela, Harry Gwala, and uMgungundlovu Districts. This weather system is expected to bring hazardous conditions, including heavy snowfall, which could result in road closures, dangerous travel conditions, and potential entrapment on icy roads.
MEC Buthelezi emphasized the severity of the upcoming weather, urging residents in affected areas to take necessary precautions, including avoiding unnecessary travel. “The risk of entrapment due to icy roads is very high, and residents must remain cautious,” he said, calling on the public to follow safety guidelines and heed the weather warnings.
A Level 2 warning for disruptive snow is also in place for the Ugu, Amajuba, and surrounding districts, while the rest of the province has been placed under a Level 2 disruptive rain alert. Buthelezi has reassured the public that disaster management teams, coordinated by the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, are on high alert and ready to respond to emergencies. “These teams are equipped to clear roads, ensure accessibility, and provide assistance where necessary,” Buthelezi stated.
Weather Patterns and Expected Impact
The snowfall, anticipated to be between 15 to 30 cm in high-lying areas, is driven by a cut-off low-pressure system that is expected to gain strength over the weekend. This weather phenomenon will likely affect major routes, including the N3 and N11, making road travel highly dangerous in certain areas of KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and the eastern Free State.
In addition to heavy snow, cold daytime temperatures, ranging between 4°C and 8°C, will sweep across KwaZulu-Natal, while widespread thunderstorms are expected in other regions such as Gauteng, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga.
Precautionary Measures and Disaster Response
Residents are advised to stay updated through reliable news platforms and follow the guidance issued by SAWS and local authorities. Precautions include stocking up on essential supplies, avoiding unnecessary travel, and ensuring homes are prepared for possible power outages. In addition, those living in rural or mountainous areas, particularly those dependent on generators or braziers for heating, are encouraged to exercise extreme caution, as these devices pose additional safety risks in volatile weather.
Local municipalities and the Department of Transport have collaborated with disaster management teams to ensure major routes are accessible and any disruptions are promptly addressed. Buthelezi confirmed that teams are ready to mobilize and provide emergency support to residents in need, particularly in vulnerable areas.
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