WATCH: Hail storm hits KwaZulu-Natal as Durbanites take cover

KwaZulu-Natal residents are dealing with the fallout of severe thunderstorms that has swept across the province, bringing hail, heavy downpours and strong winds.

KWA-ZULU NATAL HIT BY HAILSTORMS

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) had issued a level two warning for severe thunderstorms for Tuesday, 15 September. This covers large parts of southern and eastern KZN, including eThekwini, Msunduzi, Richmond, uMngeni, uMkhambathini, Impendle, Maphumulo, Mandeni, KwaDukuza, Nongoma, Ulundi, uMhlathuze and Ray Nkonyeni.

Pietermaritzburg was among the areas hit, with residents reporting a hailstorm moving through the city and surrounding Midlands area on Tuesday.

WATCH: THE THUNDERSTORMS AND HAIL

SAWS had cautioned that residents could expect heavy downpours, lightning, strong winds and large amounts of small hail. The weather service also flagged the risk of localised flooding on roads and bridges.

KwaZulu-Natal had already been placed under a separate warning for strong winds along the coast earlier in the week, adding to concerns for maritime and coastal activities.

WHAT RESIDENTS ARE ADVISED TO DO

• Authorities have urged residents in affected municipalities to avoid travelling on bridges and roads in low-lying areas where flooding or sinkholes may develop.
• Steer clear of outdoor activities during thunderstorms given the lightning and hail risk
• Secure loose outdoor items ahead of further wind gusts
• Motorists have also been advised to take extra caution on exposed routes, particularly in high-sided vehicles.

This is a developing story.

Severe thunderstorms were also predicted in Gauteng and Mpumalanga.