Gale force winds, severe thunderstorms 'to wreak havoc' in KZN on Thursday

"Those who are driving along the coast need to be careful because we might see some coastal roads being closed because of the sand, creating a very difficult driving conditions," says forecaster Wisani Maluleke.

The South African Weather Service has warned that damaging winds of 70-kilometres per hour are set to hit the province, and forecasters have issued two warnings.

Maluleke says one alert's for damaging winds that could disrupt road traffic, rail transportation, and local coastal routes.

"Mainly those who are using boats at the ocean. Even swimming is not safe today because the waves are also expected to be high."

Maluleke says severe thunderstorms are expected over KZN's north-western parts as well later.

"There's a possibility of localised flooding due to heavy rainfall. Ulundi, Newcastle, Vryheid - lighting strikes are expected and the possibility of hail."

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