KwaZulu-Natal residents have been told to prepare for heatwaves, long dry spells and possible drought between October 2026 and March 2027, IOL reported.
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi called on residents, farmers and businesses to take precautions against the possible effects of El Niño.
“Disaster preparedness is a collective responsibility, and early action can help reduce the impact of these conditions on our people and their livelihoods,” Buthelezi said.
The seasonal outlook shows the province could get below-normal rainfall from October to December 2026. These dry conditions could continue into March 2027.
Temperatures are also expected to be above normal. The forecast warns of a higher risk of severe and frequent heatwaves.
According to the South African Weather Service, El Niño happens when sea surface temperatures in parts of the Pacific Ocean become warmer than average. This changes weather patterns and makes drier conditions more likely in parts of southern Africa.
The possible effects listed include water shortages, veld and forest fires, lower farm production, stress on livestock and more pressure on health services.
Children, older people and people living in informal settlements are among those most at risk from extreme heat, the report said.
Long dry periods during the planting season could also hurt crop yields, livestock farming and food security across the province.
The Provincial Disaster Management Centre is leading the planning with provincial departments, municipalities and other partners. These include the departments that handle health, agriculture, water and sanitation, environmental affairs and social development.
“The PDMC will closely monitor drought indicators and coordinate preparedness planning across the province,” Buthelezi said.
Buthelezi said municipalities were being asked to fix water leaks and save more water. He said they were also drawing up backup plans to keep water supplies running.
Water Services Authorities have been urged to put water saving first and to have drought response plans in place.
The water and sanitation department will watch dam levels and support drought response work. The Department of Agriculture will keep advising farmers on climate-smart farming and crops that can survive drought.
Farmers have been asked to watch their livestock closely. They should protect animals from heat stress and water shortages.
Residents have been asked to use water carefully and avoid anything that could start veld or forest fires. They should also take care during very hot periods.
Buthelezi said the provincial government would work with municipalities, technical experts, social partners and traditional leaders, known as Amakhosi. He said the aim was to make sure communities get information and practical advice on time.
The MEC urged residents to follow official weather warnings and take steps to protect their families, livestock and property.
Source: this article is based on reporting by IOL. Image: IOL. Written with the help of AI and published by the Tzaneen Voice News desk. See our Editorial Standards.
Kgomotso Maake covers news and politics for Tzaneen Voice. Kgomotso reports on government, Parliament, municipalities, courts, crime and service delivery across South Africa, with a close eye on how national decisions reach towns like Tzaneen and the wider Limpopo province. Stories are written in plain English and focus on the facts: who made the decision, what it means, and what happens next.