Level 6 weather warning puts KZN motorists on high alert

With a Level 6 Impact-Based Warning for disruptive rainfall in place across parts of KwaZulu-Natal, including eThekwini, motorists are being urged to take extra care, avoid flooded roads and make sure their vehicles are ready for hazardous driving conditions.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of heavy and disruptive rainfall across the region, with the potential for flooding in low-lying and residential areas, fast-flowing streams and deep water. The warning is in place for Thursday, 17 September and Friday, 18 September.

The Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is reminding motorists that even a vehicle in good condition can become difficult to control when confronted with standing water, poor visibility and slippery road surfaces.
Dewald Ranft, Chairman of MIWA, says motorists should take the warnings seriously and avoid unnecessary risks.

“The most important message for motorists during severe weather is simple: if a road is flooded, do not attempt to drive through it. You cannot reliably judge the depth or condition of the road beneath the water, and fast-flowing water can move a vehicle or sweep it off the road,” he says.

He adds that motorists should also remember that flooding is not the only hazard.
“Heavy rain can dramatically reduce visibility, make road surfaces slippery and increase the risk of aquaplaning. Drivers need to slow down, increase their following distance and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or changes of direction.”

MIWA recommends that motorists check the following before setting out:
•              Tyres: Check that tyres have adequate tread and are correctly inflated. Worn tyres significantly reduce grip on wet roads.

•              Wipers: Make sure wiper blades are in good condition and clearing the windscreen properly.

•              Lights: Check headlights, brake lights, indicators and hazard lights. In poor visibility, being seen is as important as seeing the road ahead.

•              Brakes: If your brakes feel different or the vehicle pulls to one side when braking, have them checked before travelling.

•              Windscreen and demisters: Keep the windscreen clean and ensure the demisting system is working properly.

•              Battery: Cold, wet conditions can place additional demands on the vehicle, so motorists should not ignore warning signs of a weak battery.

On the road, Ranft advises motorists to reduce speed and leave significantly more space between themselves and the vehicle ahead.

“Do not underestimate standing water. Even a relatively shallow layer can cause a vehicle to lose traction or aquaplane, particularly at speed. If visibility becomes severely restricted, slow down safely and, where possible, find a safe place to stop rather than continuing into increasingly dangerous conditions,” he says.

Motorists should also avoid driving around barriers or road closures and should never attempt to cross a flooded section of road simply because another vehicle has done so.
“Weather conditions and roads can change very quickly. A route that was passable a short time ago can become dangerous after another heavy downpour. Give yourself extra time, monitor local traffic and weather advisories, and be prepared to change your route or delay your journey if conditions deteriorate,” says Ranft.

The current warning follows recent incidents of localised flooding on major routes in and around Durban, highlighting the potential for severe weather to disrupt traffic and create hazardous conditions for motorists.

“The safest vehicle is one that is properly maintained, but the safest decision in extreme weather is knowing when not to drive. Motorists should take the current warnings seriously and put safety ahead of convenience,” Ranft concludes.
 

Golden Rules for Driving in the Rain - Drive Lights On, Reduce Speed, Increase Following Distance!! Don't Drive Distracted!! https://t.co/eQAHiIl5co #ArriveAlive #Rains #Weather@GovernmentZA @ReenvalSA @Dotransport pic.twitter.com/Lx9tj4OJZO

— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) September 17, 2026