Weekend thunderstorms: Which areas could face heavy rain?

South Africans in parts of KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and the Free State should prepare for unsettled weather on Saturday, 14 November.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) warns of severe thunderstorms, heavy downpours and possible flooding.

SAWS has issued an Orange Level 5 warning for severe thunderstorms over parts of the country, with the risk of flooding, large amounts of hail and damage to roads, homes and infrastructure.

A Yellow Level 2 alerts for severe thunderstorms and disruptive rain, as well as a separate coastal wind warning was also issued for Cape Town.

Severe thunderstorms could bring flooding and hail

The Orange Level 5 warning covers parts of the interior, including areas around Howick, Ladysmith and Newcastle in KwaZulu-Natal.

The Orange Level 5 warning is valid from 13:00 until midnight on Saturday.

SAWS has also issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms over parts of Gauteng, North West, the Free State and Mpumalanga.

The storms could bring localised flooding to vulnerable roads, low-lying areas and bridges.

Large amounts of small hail and damaging winds could also affect infrastructure and property.

KwaZulu-Natal coast faces disruptive rain

A separate Yellow Level 2 warning covers parts of the KwaZulu-Natal coast, including areas around Durban and Richards Bay.

Heavy downpours could cause localised flooding on susceptible roads and around low-lying bridges. Poor visibility and slippery road surfaces could also increase travel times.

Although some roads may remain passable, motorists should allow extra time for their journeys and avoid driving through flooded sections.