Level 5 severe weather warning issued for South Africa
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued level 5 severe weather warnings for parts of KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday, 14 November.
The warning is for severe storms expected across the region, largely affecting inland cities such as Howick, Ladysmith, and Newcastle, and is in effect from 13h00 on 14 November until midnight the same day.
Level two warnings for disruptive rain were also issued along the province’s coast.
The weather service said the storms could lead to flooding in settlements, which in turn may cause displacement in affected communities.
SAWS also noted a danger to life from fast-flowing rivers, as well as mudslides, falling rocks, and soil erosion in these areas.
Flooding of roads and bridges can cause traffic disruptions and affect essential services, such as electricity and water, in affected areas.
“Potential disruption of essential services (e.g. water, electricity and communication networks),” the weather service noted.
Large amounts of small hail are also forecast for the areas affected by the level five warning, as well as fires from lightning.
With the severe weather warning in mind, SAWS advised people in affected areas to stay indoors and off the roads where possible.
Residents in these areas should also avoid crossing swollen rivers or fast-moving water and, if trapped in floods, should leave their vehicles and move to higher ground.
“In rural areas, protect and relocate animals to safe, higher ground. Contact disaster management authorities where things become uncontrollable,” SAWS said.
According to SAWS’ severe weather ranking system, a level five warning denotes a medium likelihood of significant impact in the area.
A level two warning indicates a high likelihood of minor impact in the affected regions, according to the same system.
Along KwaZulu-Natal’s coast, the weather service issued a level two warning for disruptive rain over the same period.
This weather could cause localised flooding in susceptible areas and create difficult driving conditions, such as poor visibility.
Minor road accidents can also occur due to poor visibility and slippery roads during a level two severe warning.
The level two warning applies to large parts of the province’s coastline, including Durban and Richards Bay, as well as Pietermaritzburg further inland.
The warning also extends through the Free State and into the North West, potentially affecting cities such as Rustenburg and Klerksdorp.
In Cape Town, SAWS issued a level one warning for damaging winds, which can cause localised damage to settlements and temporary structures.
“The public is advised to secure loose objects and structures, roof sheets, signage and outdoor furniture,” SAWS said.
Severe weather warnings for Saturday, 14 November 2026
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