The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a strong warning for severe rains, thunderstorms, and powerful winds expected to affect large parts of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) over the weekend. Residents are being urged to prepare for disruptive weather conditions, as the province braces for a series of storms expected to intensify from Saturday and continue until Monday.
According to SAWS, a cut-off low-pressure system will sweep across the province beginning Saturday morning, triggering severe rains, heavy downpours, lightning, and damaging winds. This weather system follows a pattern of early-summer instability, which has already contributed to flooding concerns in other regions of the country.
Municipalities across KZN have been placed on heightened alert. Several districts will operate under a Level 4 warning, indicating a high probability of widespread heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. These conditions pose risks such as localized flooding, overflowing stormwater systems, damage to infrastructure, fallen trees, and dangerous driving conditions. Other parts of the province will operate under a Level 2 warning, meaning that while conditions may be less severe, residents should still exercise caution and remain aware of the rapidly changing weather.
Disaster management teams have been activated and remain on standby throughout the weekend. Authorities have urged communities living in low-lying areas to stay alert, particularly where drainage systems are known to be inadequate. Motorists have also been advised to avoid crossing flooded bridges, as swift-moving water can become hazardous in seconds.
Impact of Severe Rains Across KwaZulu-Natal
The storms are expected to last until Monday, giving emergency teams little rest as they monitor potential flooding, landslides, and infrastructure disruptions. As severe rains intensify, SAWS will continue issuing updates to ensure the public remains informed.
Officials emphasize that early preparation is crucial. Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items, ensure emergency kits are stocked, and keep mobile devices charged in case of power outages. With strong winds expected to accompany the severe rains, the risk of falling debris and damaged roofs also increases, particularly in rural and coastal communities.
The combination of a cut-off low-pressure system and saturated ground conditions in some parts of the province heightens the likelihood of water-related hazards. SAWS warns that ongoing severe rains may escalate the potential for flash floods, especially in regions with steep terrain or areas prone to poor drainage.
Local leaders have called for calm but caution, urging residents to follow official weather advisories and avoid unnecessary travel. Emergency service providers have also encouraged residents to report blocked drains, compromised roads, and any early signs of flooding, allowing teams to respond quickly.
Despite the challenging weather forecast, the province remains prepared. Disaster management units have been working closely with municipalities to ensure storm readiness, including clearing stormwater channels, preparing temporary shelters, and coordinating communication systems to reach remote communities.
While KwaZulu-Natal prepares for severe rains, another story making headlines is the rising success of South African actor Khosi Ngema Molaba, widely recognized for his role in the popular series Blood & Water. Molaba recently shared his excitement after securing a major role in an upcoming Hollywood film.
In an interview with Spotlight South Africa, he described the moment he learned he had landed the role as “surreal,” explaining that he had long admired the actors he will now be starring alongside.
“It was so surreal, I was like, this is happening. I was watching these people, now I am starring alongside them. Like what?” he said.
Reflecting on the experience of being on set, Molaba added, “I saw that when I was on set, I said, ‘There’s still a long way to go, and I’m prepared for that—and I am happy to take it on.’”
The film is scheduled for release on 14 November 2025, giving fans ample time to anticipate his big-screen moment. Molaba’s journey from local drama series to international cinema continues to inspire young South African performers aiming to break into global entertainment.
Source- EWN