The eThekwini Municipality has activated its Disaster Management Center and placed Fire and Emergency Services, alongside all key Municipal frontline units, on high alert following a Level 6 Impact-Based Warning for disruptive rainfall issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).
The warning is active from 00:00 on Thursday, 17 September, until 23:59 on Friday, 18 September 2026, covering the eThekwini metro and surrounding municipalities across southern KwaZulu-Natal.
The severe weather is being driven by a combination of a strong ridging high-pressure system, a coastal low-pressure system, and a cut-off low over the interior. Together, these systems are expected to bring widespread, heavy rainfall to the region over the two-day period.
The South African Weather Service warns that heavy downpours may lead to:
• Flooding of roads, low-lying bridges, and residential areas (including informal settlements).
• Fast-flowing streams and deep-water hazards that pose a threat to life.
• Localised damage to property, municipal infrastructure, and livestock.
• Temporary disruption of essential services and access to isolated communities.
The Municipality reassures residents that operational teams including Fire, Disaster Management and Metro Police Directorates, are fully mobilised. Municipal crews will continuously monitor high-risk zones, waterways, and infrastructure historically vulnerable to flooding.
Emergency response teams are stationed across the city for rapid deployment should localised incidents occur.
Residents are asked to remain calm, stay off the roads where possible, and strictly adhere to the following safety precautions.
SAFETY GUIDANCE FOR RESIDENTS
• Avoid High-Risk Routes: Do not travel through low-lying roads or across bridges prone to flooding.
• Never Cross Fast-Flowing Water: Avoid crossing flooded rivers, streams, or swollen drainage channels, either on foot or in a vehicle. Just a few centimeters of moving water can sweep a vehicle away.
• Prepare Early: Residents in low-lying or informal settlements should pre-identify higher ground and safe evacuation routes.
• Secure Property: Tie down or store loose outdoor structures and debris that could be swept away by wind or runoff.
• Drive with Extreme Caution: Motorists must turn on headlights, increase following distances, significantly reduce speed, and avoid non-essential travel during peak rainfall.
• Stay Updated: Follow official eThekwini Municipality channels for verified updates.
To report life-threatening emergencies or municipal infrastructure damage, contact the City’s Central Call Centre:
• Disaster Management & Emergency Services: 031 361 0000
ENDS
*Issued by the eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate