KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) will face scattered showers and thunderstorms today as unstable conditions strengthen across the eastern half of the country.
The South African Weather Service notes that rainfall chances increase as weather systems over Limpopo, Gauteng and the Free State push moisture south-eastward into KZN.
Thunderstorms activity expands from the interior
Forecaster Mpho Rasimphi said KZN’s storm risk forms part of a regional system.
“We expect isolated showers tonight, becoming more scattered across KwaZulu-Natal tomorrow as instability moves toward the coast,” Rasimphi stated.
The northern and central interior of KZN is most likely to experience notable thunderstorm activity.
Warnings extend into coastal regions
While KZN falls under a level 1 severe thunderstorm warning, conditions remain potentially disruptive. Heavy downpours, brief hail and strong winds may accompany storms moving eastward.
Rasimphi added, “Thunderstorms can lead to flooding in places, especially where heavy downpours occur repeatedly.”
Damaging winds along the coastal corridor are linked to a strengthening high-pressure system. Motorists, farmers and outdoor workers are encouraged to exercise caution.
Warm temperatures fuel convective storms
Overnight temperatures remained generally mild, with coastal lows in the mid-teens. Today will be significantly warmer, with Durban expected to reach a peak of around 28°C.
Rasimphi said, “Heat-induced thunderstorms are possible, especially where daytime temperatures climb into the upper twenties.”
Communities should stay alert to changing weather conditions, particularly in areas prone to flash flooding or wind damage.
