Storms could turn Tuesday’s school run into a risky trip

Parents and motorists in parts of four provinces should prepare for difficult conditions on the roads as thunderstorms develop on Tuesday.

The storms could bring localised flooding, particularly on susceptible roads, in low-lying areas and around bridges. The weather could also cause damage to property, vehicles and infrastructure in some areas.

Heavy rain can quickly make some routes difficult to use. Water may build up on roads and bridges, while poor visibility can make driving more challenging.

Motorists should slow down when storms arrive and avoid crossing flooded roads. Parents should also allow extra time for the school run if heavy rain affects their usual routes.

Which areas face the biggest storm risk?

The warning covers the southern and eastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal, southern and central Gauteng, eastern Free State and areas along the Lesotho border.

The extreme eastern parts of North West also fall under the warning.

Tuesday forecast for the four provinces

KwaZulu-Natal

Partly cloudy and cool to warm with scattered showers and thundershowers.

The wind along the coast will be moderate to fresh north-easterly but light to moderate southerly to south-westerly in the extreme south, spreading to Mtunzini by the evening.

The expected UVB sunburn index: Low

Gauteng

Partly cloudy, windy and cool to warm with isolated showers and thundershowers.

The expected UVB sunburn index: High

Free State

Partly cloudy, windy and cool to warm with scattered showers and thundershowers but isolated in the south-west.

North West

Partly cloudy, windy and cool to warm with isolated showers and thundershowers, except in the extreme north-west.

The biggest concern for the school run is the potential for localised flooding. Water levels can rise quickly, particularly around low-lying roads and bridges.

Parents and motorists should check conditions before setting off and reconsider their route if flooding develops.