The South African Weather Service has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms across most of KwaZulu-Natal and the eastern Highveld of Mpumalanga on Sunday, 27 September. The warning covers heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning. The KZN warning excludes the province's extreme southern parts, while in Mpumalanga, it applies to the eastern Highveld.
The forecast describes a risk of localised flooding on susceptible roads, low-lying ground, and bridges, as well as damage to settlements and infrastructure. However, the warning does not mean every place in the warning area will see a severe storm. Residents and travellers are advised to take necessary precautions and stay informed about the latest weather updates.
In addition to the storm warning, the South African Weather Service has also issued a separate Level 2 warning for damaging interior winds over most of KZN, excluding the south-western parts. These winds could affect some transport routes and travel services, causing disruptions to daily activities.
A further Level 2 warning for the KZN coast covers strong winds and waves that could disrupt small harbours or a port and make conditions hazardous for small vessels. This warning is specifically for the coastal areas of KZN, where residents and fishermen are advised to exercise caution when venturing out to sea.
The Sunday forecast, reproduced by specialist weather outlet Snow Report Southern Africa from SA Weather Service material, says isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible over central and eastern South Africa from the afternoon. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast for KZN, while Mpumalanga is expected to have isolated showers and thunderstorms, more widespread in the south-east.
The weather service also flagged extremely high fire danger in the Ratlou and Mahikeng local municipalities of North West and northern and central Gauteng. This alert is separate from the KZN and Mpumalanga storm warning, and residents in these areas are advised to take extra precautions to prevent fires.
People travelling through warned areas are advised to check the latest SA Weather Service notices and local traffic or disaster-management updates before setting out. No road closure, flooding, or damage from Sunday's forecast has been independently confirmed, but residents and travellers are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for any potential disruptions.
Key points
- A Yellow Level 2 warning has been issued for severe thunderstorms in KZN and Mpumalanga on Sunday, 27 September.
- The warning covers heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning, with a risk of localised flooding and damage to settlements and infrastructure.
- Separate Level 2 warnings have also been issued for damaging interior winds in KZN and strong winds and waves along the KZN coast.
