The South African Weather Service (Saws) has issued a level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms affecting various parts of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) for Tuesday, March 25, 2025. The warning is active from 3 PM until 11:59 PM. Affected areas include Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma municipality, Underberg, eThekwini, Greater Kokstad, Impendle, Ingwe, Mkhambathini, Mpofana Giants Castle, Ray Nkonyeni, Richmond, Msunduzi, Ubuhlebezwe, Umdoni, uMngeni, UMuziwabantu, Umzimkhulu, and Umzumbe.
Saws cautions that damaging winds, excessive lightning, hail, and heavy downpours leading to localized flooding are expected in the southern parts of KZN this afternoon. “Scattered showers and thundershowers are expected over the southern parts of KZN tomorrow [Tuesday] with a possibility of severe thunderstorms accompanied by damaging winds, excessive lightning, hail and heavy downpours leading to localized impacts,” Saws warned.
The possibility of severe thunderstorms could lead to localized damage to infrastructure, settlements, vehicles, livelihoods, and livestock. Furthermore, it enhances flooding risks on susceptible roads and poses dangers to life due to lightning strikes. Residents are strongly urged to take precautions or avoid traveling on bridges and roads in low-lying areas, as these places may be particularly vulnerable to flooding.
“Avoid outdoor activities as lightning, hail, and flooding may result in injuries and death. If possible, stay indoors well clear of windows, shelter pets, and cover vehicles. Move livestock and cars to safe sheltered areas as there may be flying debris,” Saws advised.
Similarly, on the same day, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) issued a thunderstorm warning for Kuala Lumpur and five other states, set to remain in effect until 5 PM. The notifying states include Pahang (with Bentong and Temerloh), Selangor (Hulu Selangor, Gombak, and Petaling), Negeri Sembilan (Seremban), Johor (Tangkak, Muar, and Batu Pahat), and Sarawak (Limbang).
This alert is specifically issued when thunderstorms with rainfall intensity exceeding 20mm per hour are imminent or expected to persist for more than an hour, marking them as short-term warnings. These warnings are valid for no more than six hours from issuance, as stated by MetMalaysia: “These are short-term warnings, valid for no more than six hours from issuance.”
As parents in Palm Beach County prepare for spring break, officials are reminded of the thunderstorm risks on March 25, where there is a chance for a few thunderstorms. The National Weather Service has emphasized the dangers associated with thunderstorms: lightning can strike up to 10 miles away. They recommend that, “When thunder roars, go indoors.”
In light of the upcoming thunderstorms, families are encouraged to develop a safety plan, ensuring access to sturdy buildings should a storm arise and the importance of staying indoors for at least 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder. The presence of lightning during these storms could initiate wildfires, warranting heightened alerts and caution.
The convergence of severe thunderstorms in both South Africa and Malaysia on March 25 underscores an urgent need for safety and preparedness. With children enjoying their spring break in Palm Beach County, communities must remain vigilant to ensure that outdoor enjoyment doesn’t turn into a risk for injury or damage. Local authorities highlight the importance of following weather alerts and adopting safety measures during this unpredictable stormy season.
Residents across affected regions are advised to remain informed of the weather conditions and heed any guidance or warnings from weather services. As the storms approach, having access to timely alerts and a solid safety plan can make a critical difference in personal safety and security.
