KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) calls upon communities in low-lying areas to seek shelter on higher ground.

Heavy rains continue to cause major blockages on roads and disaster management teams are working round the clock to direct traffic to alternative routes.

The department has received reports of mudslides which are being followed up by the disaster teams.

Residents in low-lying areas are urged to seek shelter on higher ground and community halls have been opened for those that need shelter.

We appeal to our communities in the areas that will be affected to remain calm and to follow all necessary precautions.

Residents who reside in structures that could be compromised by the heavy rains are urged to evacuate.

So far no fatality has been reported.

Updates will be issued by the department.

**Affected areas:*

A level 10 weather warning for disruptive rainfall has been issued for the following areas: Big Five Hlabisa, Hluhluwe, Ethekwini, Jozini, KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Maphumulo, Mkhambathini, Mthonjaneni, Mtubatuba, Ndwedwe, Nongoma, Ulundi, Umdoni, Umhlabuyalingana, uMhlathuze, uMlalazi and uPhongolo

*Safety precautions:*

• Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay indoors and off the roads, avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above the ankles.

• If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon it and climb to higher ground.

• In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level.

• In rural areas protect/relocate animals to a safe place on higher ground.

• Take caution when travelling or avoid travelling as roads may be flooded, with potholes being filled with water and there may be.