Strong winds to batter KwaZulu-Natal as cold front moves in

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for damaging winds in KwaZulu-Natal as a cold front and a strong high-pressure system bring powerful south-westerly winds to parts of the province.

The warning takes effect at 10:00 on Monday, 16 November, and remains in place until 23:59 on Tuesday, 17 November.

SAWS expects winds to reach between 35 and 45 knots in places along the coast and adjacent interior on Monday.

The strong winds will also affect the north coast on Tuesday.

Strong winds could disrupt coastal activities

The weather service attributes the conditions to a cold front accompanied by a strong ridging high-pressure system.

The strong southerly to south-westerly winds could disrupt activities at small harbours and ports for short periods.

SAWS also warns that strong winds could make navigation difficult and put small vessels at risk of taking on water or capsizing.

Beachfront activities could face localised disruptions, while some settlements could experience wind-related damage.

Motorists and boat operators urged to take care

The weather service warns that high-sided vehicles could experience difficulties on routes exposed to damaging winds.

Small boat operators should also remain alert as the conditions could create dangerous situations at sea.

Residents and motorists should take precautions, particularly in exposed coastal areas, as the strong winds move across KwaZulu-Natal.

The Yellow Level 2 warning remains valid until late Tuesday night.