The eThekwini Municipality has urged residents to exercise extreme caution on flood-prone roads and in low-lying areas as heavy rainfall is forecast across the metro and surrounding parts of southern KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday and Friday.
The alert follows a Level 4 Impact-Based Warning for disruptive rainfall issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), which is in effect from midnight on Thursday, 17 September, until 11.59pm on Friday, 18 September 2026.
“The municipality has activated its Disaster Management Center and placed Fire and Emergency Services, alongside all key municipal frontline units, on high alert,” the municipality said in a statement.
The severe weather is being driven by a combination of a strong ridging high-pressure system, a coastal low-pressure system, and a cut-off low over the interior. Together, these systems are expected to bring widespread, heavy rainfall to the region over the two-day period.
The SAWS warned that heavy downpours may lead to the flooding of roads, low-lying bridges and residential areas, including informal settlements.
The conditions could also lead to fast-flowing streams and deep-water hazards that pose a threat to life, as well as localised damage to property, municipal infrastructure, and livestock.
Some communities could experience temporary disruptions to essential services and access, particularly in areas that become isolated by floodwaters.
The municipality has reassured residents that operational teams, including Fire, Disaster Management and Metro Police Directorates, have been fully mobilised to respond to the incidents.
“Municipal crews will continuously monitor high-risk zones, waterways, and infrastructure historically vulnerable to flooding. Emergency response teams are stationed across the city for rapid deployment should localised incidents occur.
Residents have been asked to remain calm, stay off the roads where possible, and strictly adhere to safety precautions.
The municipality has advised residents to adhere to the following safety precautions:
• Avoid High-Risk Routes: Do not travel through low-lying roads or across bridges prone to flooding.
• Never Cross Fast-Flowing Water: Avoid crossing flooded rivers, streams, or swollen drainage channels, either on foot or in a vehicle. Just a few centimetres of moving water can sweep a vehicle away.
• Prepare Early: Residents in low-lying or informal settlements should pre-identify higher ground and safe evacuation routes.
• Secure Property: Tie down or store loose outdoor structures and debris that could be swept away by wind or runoff.
• Drive with Extreme Caution: Motorists must turn on headlights, increase following distances, significantly reduce speed, and avoid non-essential travel during peak rainfall.
• Stay Updated: Follow official eThekwini Municipality channels for verified updates. To report life-threatening emergencies or municipal infrastructure damage, contact the City’s Central Call Centre at 080 311 1111 or 031 311 1111.
Life-threatening emergencies and municipal infrastructure damage can be reported to the City’s Central Call Centre on 031 361 0000. – SAnews.gov.za
