05 Jan 2023 | 10:41 AM UTC
South Africa: Adverse weather forecast across eastern regions through at least Jan. 6
Heavy rainfall forecast across much of eastern South Africa through at least Jan, 6. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall is forecast across much of eastern South Africa through at least Jan. 6. Rainfall totals of more than 5 cm (2 inches) are expected across parts of the affected area and the heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas, as well as widespread transport, business, and utility disruptions. Disaster management teams in KwaZulu-Natal Province and other affected regions have been placed on high alert due to the anticipated impacts of the adverse weather.
As of Jan. 5, the South African Weather Service has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:
Orange Level 9 (of 10) Disruptive Rain Warnings: Central and northern coastal areas of KwaZulu-Natal Province.
Orange Level 5 Disruptive Rain Warnings: Across the rest of KwaZulu-Natal and parts of eastern Eastern Cape and eastern Mpumalanga provinces.
Yellow Level 2 Disruptive Rain Warnings: Across the rest of the affected area
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Reconfirm the status of road routes before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
