The SA Weather Service (SAWS) has issued orange level 9 and level 5 weather warnings for flooding in KwaZulu-Natal today, 12 February.
This after several parts of the province has been left in devastation after the recent severe rain activity.
ORANGE LEVEL 9 AND LEVEL 5 WARNINGS ISSUED
The tropical low along the coast of KwaZulu-Natal will unleash heavy rainfall tonight and tomorrow morning.
This could cause widespread flooding in the northern interior of KwaZulu-Natal and the coast and surrounding areas.
Severe impacts may hit the northern coastline tomorrow morning.
Impacts:
- Widespread flooding will inundate settlements and roads, causing damage to property and infrastructure.
- Disruption to traffic flow due to major roads being flooded or closed.
- Communities may be cut off and inaccessible
- Danger to life due to fast and deep flowing water
WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND YOURSELF IN A FLASH FLOOD
Arrive Alive has issued the following warnings for those who find themselves stuck in flash floods.
- Take note of your car’s limitations. If you drive through water that is 15 cm deep or more, it can lose control and stall. 30 cm of water is enough to float most cars, and 60 cm of rushing water can carry away cars, SUVs and pick-ups.
- If your car becomes submerged in flood waters, don’t panic. Release your seat belt, roll down your window, and get out. If your windows won’t open, let the car fill with water, then open the doors and swim to the surface. Don’t wait for the car to sink.
- If you’re swept away in fast-moving water, point your feet downstream and direct your body over obstacles instead of under them.
- If you’re on foot, be aware that 15cm of moving water can knock you down. Avoid contact with flood waters, which may be contaminated with raw sewage, oil, gasoline, or charged with electricity from downed power lines.
- Stay vigilant, especially at night, when it’s harder to recognize potentially deadly road hazards. Don’t camp or park your car near rivers or washes, especially during heavy rain or thunderstorms.
- Stay informed by tuning in to your local radio station during bad weather. If a flash flood is issued for your area, go to higher ground immediately. You may only have a few seconds before it becomes dangerous.
