Emergency response teams on high alert amid warning of heavy rains and possible snowfall

JOHANNESBURG - With a weather warning for most of the country, the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) provincial government is on high alert ahead of an intense cold front expected this weekend.

The South African Weather Service warned of cold weather set to hit all provinces this weekend, except Limpopo.

KZN is often prone to disasters, and the severe weather is expected to cause damage.

Disaster teams have been activated to be on standby for any incidents.

The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department (COGTA), responsible for disaster teams, said previous weather warnings had been a learning curve.

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With the latest warning of heavy rains and possible snowfall, the department said it had contingency plans in place.

On Friday, COGTA MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi briefed the media in Durban.

"We have stockpiled relief supplies including blankets, mattresses and non-perishable food items in the event of need, all our sectors and public facilities are ready to provide temporary shelter."

He called on motorists, in particular, to be extra careful.

"We do urge all our road users to exercise extreme caution this weekend, especially when driving in rainy, windy or snowy conditions."

The MEC said municipal teams would also be on standby to respond to any weather-related incidents.

Emergency response teams on high alert amid warning of heavy rains and possible snowfall - KZN COGTA

With the latest warning of heavy rains and possible snowfall, the department said it has contingency plans in place.