High alert in KZN as severe thunderstorms, flooding loom

Government has raised concern over the impact of expected severe weather conditions during the festive season.

KwaZulu-Natal disaster management teams have been placed on high alert following a warning for possible severe thunderstorms and flooding this weekend.

The South African Weather Service has issued a level four warning for the northeast region Saturday, escalating to level five on Sunday with heavy rain expected. Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila says a Joint Operations Centre has been established.

“Severe thunderstorms coupled with hail, strong winds and damaging rains could affect the following areas: Jozini, Abaqulusi, Mtubatuba, Big Five, Hlabisa, Nongoma, Umhlathuze, Uphongolo, Ulundi, Nkandla, Edumbe, Madlangeni, Mthonjaneni, Nquthu and Umlalazi. Residents within these areas are urged to exercise caution we these weather conditions are prone to pose a serious risk to human life. Disaster management teams are going to monitor routes and areas that are prone to weather related incidents.”

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs

Orange level 5 warning: Severe thunderstorms- There is a medium likelihood of significant impacts of heavy rain that may result in flooding, damaging winds, hail & excessive lightning.
Affected area: KwaZulu-Natal (northern parts)
Validity period: 11 January 2026 #saws pic.twitter.com/zc6r47WsPz

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) January 10, 2026