Central Durban has found itself grappling with significant challenges this Friday morning, as torrential rains have led to widespread localized flooding, causing travel disruptions and safety concerns across the region. Numerous reports highlight hazardous conditions on key routes, prompting warnings from authorities urging motorists to remain vigilant.
According to Garrith Jamieson, spokesperson for ALS Paramedics, the impact of the heavy rainfall is palpable: “On the N3 near Brickfield, there’s a lot of flooding. On the N2 south, large puddles are forming. We also have reports of a multiple vehicle collision as a result of water puddles on the M4 near the Riverside off-ramp in the Durban North area.”
The region is currently under a Yellow Level 4 weather alert, with forecaster Wiseman Dlamini from the SA Weather Service warning of disruptive rainfall that is expected not just on the coast but across adjacent districts as well. “We are expecting a 60% to 80% chance of rain over KZN, particularly affecting areas in the Ugu, Ilembe, and King Cetshwayo districts, alongside eThekwini, which are all likely to experience intense rainfall that could lead to significant impacts,” he stated.
- M7 Eastbound: Huge potholes affecting all three lanes after Bellville.
- M4 near Virginia Airport: Large water pools reported.
- M4 offramp (Hyper by the Sea): Flooded.
- M4 Riverside: Right lane completely flooded.
- N2 North: Flooding opposite Arbor Crossing.
- N2 South: Massive puddles near Galleria.
- Southern Freeway: Large water patches reported after Jacobs over-ramp.
- Umgeni Rd: Significant flooding observed between Alpine and town.
- M13: Huge puddles between Pinetown and Durban.
Furthermore, teams from the eThekwini Fire Department have been actively checking on at-risk homes in flooded areas such as Sydenham, where local drains are reportedly blocked. Jamieson emphasised the perilous conditions on the roads: “Anywhere where there is a low road surface and you see water, be cautious and try not to cross any flooded bridges or roads under water.”
Motorists are feeling the brunt of the weather, with slow-moving traffic reported across a host of routes, including the N2/M19 Umgeni intersection, North Coast Road, the M13 Fields Hill, and South Coast Road. “Be particularly alert on routes such as Adams Road in Amanzimtoti, which is also currently submerged,” urged Dhevan Govindsamy from PT Alarms, highlighting the widespread nature of the flooding.
As the rain shows no signs of letting up, commuters and residents alike are being reminded to stay cautious and prepared for further disruptions, with the potential for road conditions to worsen in the coming hours.