The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms over the eastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday, 23 May 2026.
Residents in the affected areas have been warned to expect heavy downpours, lightning, damaging winds and large amounts of small hail.
What the warning covers
According to SAWS, the severe thunderstorms could result in localised flooding, damage to infrastructure and informal settlements, difficult driving conditions on dirt and slippery roads, and minor motor vehicle accidents due to poor visibility. The weather service also warns of possible lightning-related fire incidents and injuries from flying debris.
Weather across the rest of the country
SAWS says a surface high-pressure system is ridging across the central and eastern parts of South Africa this weekend. Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are expected across central and eastern provinces, with foggy conditions in places early on Saturday morning before turning cloudy and cold elsewhere.
Safety advice
Motorists have been urged to reduce speed and increase following distance on wet roads. Residents in low-lying or flood-prone areas should monitor SAWS updates and avoid crossing flooded roads or low-water bridges.
Source: South African Weather Service (SAWS) regional forecast and warning issued for 23 May 2026.
