Flooding in Margate, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Heavy rains and strong winds have battered parts of the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast including Margate and Uvongo.

Areas impacted included popular holiday destinations, Margate and Uvongo.

Motorists are also being urged to avoid the area with waters still subsiding in the CBD, Marine Drive and at the beachfront.

Roads from Margate to Port Edward were a no-go zone last night.

Heavy rains caused damage in Margate.

Power outages were reported in some areas.

The South African Weather Service issued a level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms in eThekwini, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni and Umzumbe, with damaging winds, lightning, hail and heavy downpours observed along the south coast and Margate reporting up to 140mm.

Residents were warned to be careful or avoid travelling on bridges and roads in low-lying areas as these may be susceptible to flooding and sinkholes.

They were also warned to avoid outdoor activities as lightning, hail and flooding may result in injuries and death.