The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is warning the public in the northern parts of the province of a level 5 disruptive rains expected on Sunday which could result in localised flooding in some of the areas

The level 5 alert indicates a high probability of flooding as a significant amount of rainfall exceeding 70mm is expected over a 24 hour period which may lead to impact such as flooding of some of the roads and settlements, displacement and traffic congestion

Areas that are likely to be affected include Big Five Hlabisa, Mtubatuba, Nongoma, Jozini, uPhongolo and Umhlabuyalingana local municipalities.

We have activated our disaster teams in all the municipalities that are likely to be affected to be on high alert during this period. We advise communities to seek shelter in safe places. Public facilities, such as community halls, are open as safe havens for those in need of shelter. Our teams may have to evacuate people should they foresee high risk of danger due to inclement weather. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid travelling during this period, as bridges may become flooded, posing a risk to life.