Newcastle, 10 November 2025- The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), under the leadership of MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has placed all Disaster Management teams across the province on high alert following a Level 4 Severe Thunderstorm Warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).
This follows a severe thunderstorm that struck Newcastle on Sunday, 9 November 2025, bringing hail and heavy rainfall that caused flooding in the Newcastle Central Business District (CBD) and inflicted damage on roads, businesses, and homes.
Several key roads in the Newcastle CBD, including Ayliff Street, Kirkland Street, Scott & Bird Street, Patterson & Allen Street, and Allen Street near KFC, were temporarily closed due to storm damage.These routes have since been reopened following coordinated clean-up operations led by disaster management teams in partnership with the Newcastle Municipality.Damage assessments are ongoing, with reports indicating that government offices, homes, vehicles, and an old-age home were among the affected infrastructure. Disaster Management teams have been deployed to assist residents and restore essential services.MEC Buthelezi commended the rapid response of emergency personnel and urged residents to remain vigilant:> “We are grateful for the swift action taken by our Disaster Management teams in Newcastle. Their dedication has ensured that affected communities receive timely support. I appeal to all residents, particularly those in low-lying and flood-prone areas, to exercise caution. Seek shelter on higher ground and avoid crossing flooded roads or bridges. Public safety remains our utmost priority.”The Level 4 Severe Thunderstorm Warning remains in effect for the following districts and municipalities:- Amajuba District: Newcastle, Dannhauser, eMadlangeni – uThukela District: Alfred Duma, Inkosi Langalibalele, Okhahlamba – Harry Gwala District: Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Greater Kokstad, uMzimkhulu – uMgungundlovu District: Msunduzi, uMngeni, Mpofana, uMshwathi, iMpendle – Umzinyathi District: uMvoti, uMsinga, Nquthu – Zululand District: Abaqulusi, eDumbe, eNdumeni, Ulundi, Nongoma – *Other municipalities*: Nkandla, uMuziwabantuDisaster Management teams across these areas remain on standby to respond swiftly to any incidents that may arise due to the inclement weather.Residents are strongly advised to:- Avoid crossing rivers or flooded roads.- Remain indoors and away from windows during thunderstorms.- Refrain from seeking shelter under trees or near metal structures.The Department urges the public to monitor official communication channels for updates and alerts from Cogta and the South African Weather Service.
ENDS
