The incessant rains have caused flooding in Durban and its neighboring areas. It has disrupted several core areas, with a lot of roads submerged and therefore closed. The South African Weather Service(SAWS) counselled citizens with an alert of Level 4 about a disruptive rainfall warning for the whole of KwaZulu-Natal. Rains since midnight have unleashed heavy torrents along eThekwini, causing hazardous road conditions all around, resulting in several road closures.
The City of eThekwini warned that the persistent rainfall could cause:
- Flooding of roads, bridges, and settlements
- Poor driving conditions and damage to infrastructure
- Destruction of mud-based houses
Motorists are warned to drive with care; that is, with headlights on for visibility and good following distances. Gugu Sisilana, a city spokesperson, emphasized that remaining indoors was advisable unless very necessary. In flood-prone areas, the other residents, especially those living in informal settlements, have been advised to have all necessary safety precautions. Authorities have appealed to the public to refrain from crossing swollen rivers and streams.
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ALS Paramedics Medical Services reported multiple incidents of localized flooding, especially along major hotspots:
- N2 and M19 Umgeni intersection
- North Coast Road
- Queen Nandi Drive
