Parents, educators must use discretion when releasing learners amid wet weather: KZN Edu Dept
Pupils and educators were released early as a precautionary measure on Wednesday after a Level 5 warning of disruptive rain and localised flooding was issued for the province.
Picture: Warongdech Thaiwatcharamas/ 123rf.com
DURBAN - With more inclement weather expected in KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday, the Department of Education has advised parents and schools to use their discretion when allowing pupils to leave early.
On Wednesday, a Level 5 weather warning of disruptive rain and localised flooding was issued for the province.
This put a damper on the start of the academic year after a call was made to release pupils early as a precautionary measure.
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KwaZulu-Natal has been experiencing heavy downpours since 2023, causing severe flooding and claiming many lives.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) said there is no weather warning for KwaZulu-Natal, but there remains a high chance of rain throughout Thursday and going into the weekend.
There is a 60% chance of rain for most parts of the province on Thursday.
Provincial Department of Education spokesperson Muzi Mahlambi said the safety of staff and pupils remained their priority.
“Parents and educators should use their discretion, depending on what the local circumstance is before they can send or release their educators and children going to school.”
Certain roads have been temporarily closed due to flooding to prevent accidents.
Disaster management teams continue to monitor the situation across KwaZulu-Natal.