Today’s Weather Alert: Heavy Rain and Flood Risks for KZN and Eastern Cape – 16 April 2025

Today’s Weather Alert

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued urgent weather alerts for Wednesday, 16 April 2025, warning residents in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and the Eastern Cape to brace for severe weather conditions. With disruptive rainfall and heightened flood risks expected in several regions, South Africans are advised to take the necessary precautions to stay safe.

Severe Weather Warnings in Place

According to SAWS, two significant impact-based weather warnings have been issued:

• Yellow Level 4 Warning (KwaZulu-Natal):
  This is the most severe alert currently in effect. It indicates disruptive rainfall over most parts of KZN, except for the northeast. The heavy rain is expected to result in flooding of roads and settlements, especially in low-lying areas and informal communities. The public should expect major disruptions to traffic flow, with several main roads possibly flooded or closed.
• Yellow Level 2 Warning (Eastern Cape – Wild Coast):
  This warning covers the Wild Coast region and predicts heavy downpours leading to localised flooding of roads, bridges, and susceptible properties. There is also a potential for temporary disruptions to municipal services, such as electricity and water delivery.

Regional Forecast Highlights

KwaZulu-Natal Weather Overview:

Residents in KZN are in for a cold to cool day with widespread showers and thundershowers. Morning fog is expected in some areas, further reducing visibility. The northeastern regions may experience slightly warmer temperatures but are not completely exempt from rainfall. Due to the intensity and spread of the showers, those in flood-prone areas should be on high alert.

Eastern Cape Forecast:

• Eastern Half: Expect cloudy and cool conditions with isolated to scattered showers and rain. The Wild Coast will experience widespread rain, making travel and outdoor activities risky.
• Western Half: Cloudy along the coast in the morning with isolated rain showers, clearing to partly cloudy and cool conditions inland by midday.

Other Provincial Weather Highlights:

While KZN and the Eastern Cape face the brunt of the storm, other provinces will also experience wet conditions:

• Gauteng: Partly cloudy and cool with scattered showers and thundershowers. A high UVB index means sun protection is still necessary between rain spells.
• Mpumalanga & Limpopo: Morning fog in places, followed by partly cloudy skies with scattered showers in Mpumalanga and isolated to scattered rainfall in Limpopo.
• North West & Free State: Expect cool to warm weather with morning fog and isolated to scattered showers.
• Northern Cape: Mostly dry, with the exception of isolated thunderstorms in the extreme northeast.
• Western Cape: Mild and partly cloudy, clearing by the evening in the Central Karoo. Fine weather expected in the west.

Safety Tips for Residents

In light of the severe weather alerts, residents in affected areas are advised to:

• Avoid crossing flooded roads or bridges, as water levels may rise quickly and unpredictably.
• Secure loose outdoor items that could be damaged or pose a risk in stormy conditions.
• Keep emergency contact numbers and essential supplies (such as torches, non-perishable food, and bottled water) readily available.
• Monitor updates from SAWS and local authorities for real-time alerts and road closures.

The forecast for Wednesday, 16 April 2025, brings a clear warning of heavy rain, flooding, and severe disruptions to normal life in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. With Level 4 and Level 2 weather warnings in effect, it’s crucial that residents heed the alerts, stay indoors where possible, and avoid unnecessary travel.

Stay tuned to official SAWS channels for updates and ensure your loved ones are informed and prepared. As weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, awareness and preparedness are key to staying safe.