The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has urged members of the public to take immediate precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property as severe thunderstorms are expected to sweep across the country today, starting from 2pm until midnight.
The warning follows an alert issued by the Eswatini Meteorological Service, forecasting damaging winds, intense lightning, heavy rainfall and possible hailstorms, particularly over the southern parts of the country, with the system expected to move northwards as the day progresses.
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According to the NDMA, the anticipated weather event poses significant risks to both rural and urban communities, including power outages, destruction to infrastructure, fallen trees, blocked or flooded roads, hazardous driving conditions, injuries from hail or airborne debris, crop and livestock losses, and waterlogged agricultural fields.
The agency urged the nation to ‘remain vigilant and proactive in protecting themselves and their assets during this time.’
IMMEDIATE ACTIONS TO TAKE
The NDMA encouraged households and businesses to prioritise securing their environments ahead of the storm:
• Bring loose outdoor items indoors, including furniture, tools and equipment that could be blown away by strong winds.
• Close and secure all windows and doors to reduce the risk of hail or wind damage.
• Clear gutters and drainage systems to prevent water pooling and flooding around homes.
• Reinforce roofing material by tightening or securing loose sheets.
• Remove loose objects from roofs, such as stones or bricks, which may become hazardous airborne debris.
• Move vehicles under shelter, such as garages or covered areas, to protect them from hail damage.
PERSONAL AND FAMILY SAFETY
The nation is urged to:
• Identify a safe indoor space for shelter in case conditions worsen.
• Charge mobile phones and essential devices to stay informed in the event of power outages.
LIGHTNING, STRONG WIND AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY
The public is advised to:
• Stay indoors during thunderstorms and limit outdoor activities.
• Avoid open fields, tall trees, and metal objects.
• Refrain from using electrical appliances and water taps during lightning activity.
ROAD SAFETY
Motorists are warned to:
• Avoid unnecessary travel. If travel is unavoidable, drive slowly and be cautious of road obstructions and reduced visibility.
• Avoid flooded roads. Drivers encountering flowing water are urged to turn back, as strong currents pose life-threatening risks.
EXPECTED IMPACTS
The National Meteorological Service highlighted that the storm may lead to:
• Injuries and damage to property
• Power outages
• Poor driving conditions
• Localised flooding and hail damage
• Disruption of communication networks and agricultural operations
AFFECTED AREAS
The worst impacts are forecast over the southern regions—where severe thunderstorms and hail are most likely—before conditions gradually extend toward central and northern Eswatini.
The NDMA emphasised the importance of preparedness and encouraged the public to follow official updates throughout the day.
