Heavy rain, hail and strong winds triggered by a cut-off low-pressure system have affected several road networks and human settlements in parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma said roving teams from Human Settlements, the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) and Operation Shanela were monitoring road networks and human settlements across the province.
“Various areas in eThekwini Municipality have already been hit by severe thunderstorms accompanied by hail, rain, and strong winds,” Duma said.
The severe weather patterns have been triggered by the cut-off low-pressure system.
The MEC also urged motorists to exercise extra caution as Tuesday, is payday and traffic volumes and public movement were expected to increase.
“Motorists must reduce speed and maintain the following distance,” Duma said.
He cautioned road users about slippery roads and poor visibility during the severe weather.
Hail has affected parts of KZN.
The RTI team had also been deployed along various strategic routes to monitor and direct traffic where necessary.
Meanwhile, eThekwini Municipality issued a traffic and weather advisory after localised flooding affected the N3 Eastbound before the Tollgate Bridge following heavy downpours.
The municipality said three lanes were closed to traffic because of high water levels on the freeway.
Emergency services and Metro Police were on site managing traffic flow.
Motorists travelling inbound towards the Durban CBD were advised to use alternative routes, exercise extreme patience and allow for travel delays.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) advised that severe thunderstorm activity remained active across parts of KwaZulu-Natal, including eThekwini.
The municipality warned that further heavy downpours, frequent lightning, damaging winds and localised flooding remained possible throughout the remainder of Tuesday.
Municipal emergency response teams remained on high alert and were monitoring low-lying areas, informal settlements and major road networks prone to weather-related incidents.
Residents were advised not to attempt to drive through flooded sections of the N3 or other low-lying roads and to seek safe alternative routes.
Motorists were also advised to reduce speed, switch on headlights and maintain safe following distances on wet and waterlogged surfaces.
The municipality further advised members of the public not to cross swollen rivers, streams or overflowing stormwater channels, either on foot or in vehicles.
“Where possible, residents are encouraged to stay indoors until conditions stabilise,” the municipality said.
Duma said Human Settlements teams, working with municipalities and other relevant government departments, were monitoring high-risk areas and would intervene quickly where necessary to assist communities in distress.
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