Heavy rains, thunderstorms, essential service disruptions expected across the country

Minor and major vehicle accidents also increase due to poor driving visibility and slippery road conditions and there is an increased possibility of localised service disruptions due to power failures. 

The community was urged to stay indoors and away from metal objects, if possible; advised not to shelter under tall trees; and to avoid cross low-lying bridges, roads and swollen streams. 

Disaster management teams across KwaZulu-Natal were also placed on high alert after severe SA Weather Service warnings. 

From Sunday to Tuesday eThekwini and other parts of the province, including the Ugu, uMgungundlovu and iLembe districts, will experience disruptive rainfall, thunderstorms, excessive lightning, large hail and damaging winds, according to the alert. 

A second warning was issued for severe thunderstorms across the rest of KwaZulu-Natal, which could lead to flooding and infrastructure damage. 

An orange level six warning was issued in the Eastern Cape, where heavy and disruptive rains are expected across the province. Heavy downpours are expected along the southeast coast, with the area between East London and Port St Johns expected to encounter the most rainfall, from Sunday through to Wednesday. 

More disruptive rainfall was also predicted over the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro area from Monday into Tuesday — with some areas being cut off, damage expected to roads and bridges, as well as disruptions to essential services and danger to life. 

TimesLIVE