KZN municipalities told to prepare for extreme weather
Local government authorities say municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal have been directed to clear any blockages in storm water drains ahead of extreme weather expected from this weekend.
The South African Weather Service says there'll be icy conditions, with snow expected in eight of the nine provinces, including KwaZulu-Natal.
Heavy rain and strong winds are also forecast in parts of the province from Monday, particularly in southern KZN.
During recent disasters, drainage systems clogged up by rubbish and debris have contributed to flooding in some communities.
KZN MEC of Cooperative Governance Thulasizwe Buthelezi says they have learnt lessons from past disasters.
READ: KZN activates winter plan as it gears up for cold snap
" Instances of heavy snowfall and significant floods, and in certain cases where lives have been lost, have been very crucial in informing and strengthening the province's disaster management strategies.
"Going forward, we have meticulously analysed these incidents, and this has led to significant improvements in our approach, in our response times, in our coordination as departments and in our resource allocation."
Buthelezi says infrastructure maintenance is a key part of the province’s Winter Contingency Plan.
He says they're also working closely with Treasury to encourage municipalities to ring-fence 8% of their budgets specifically for operations and maintenance.
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