Yellow Level 4 warning issued for severe thunderstorms in Mpumalanga
· The South African
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms in southern Mpumalanga.
Heavy downpours and damaging winds could cause flooding, damage to infrastructure and major travel disruptions.
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The warning takes effect at 14:00 on Monday, 26 October, and remains valid until 23:59 on Tuesday, 27 October.
SAWS warns that severe thunderstorms could bring significant impacts to affected communities, although it considers the likelihood of these impacts low.
Which areas are affected?
The Yellow Level 4 warning covers southern parts of Mpumalanga, including areas around Ermelo and Emakhazeni, as indicated on the SAWS warning map.
These areas face a higher impact level than those covered by the Yellow Level 2 warning in other parts of the province.
What impacts can residents expect?
According to SAWS, heavy downpours and strong, damaging winds could cause flooding and damage to infrastructure, homes, vehicles and other property.
The weather service warns of possible injuries and danger to life, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding.
Severe weather could also disrupt major transport routes, with some roads and bridges potentially closing because of flooding.
Municipal and essential services, including electricity, healthcare, education and communications, could experience disruptions.
Farmers could also face agricultural losses, including damage to livestock and livelihoods.
Staying safe during severe thunderstorms
Residents should monitor weather warnings and avoid travelling through flooded roads or bridges.
Motorists should reduce their speed during heavy rain and avoid unnecessary travel when conditions become dangerous.
People living in areas at risk of flooding should remain alert to rising water levels and follow instructions from local emergency services.
SAWS advises residents to keep checking official weather updates as conditions change.