31 dead and three still missing, as severe weather hits KwaZulu-Natal

31 dead and three still missing, as severe weather hits KwaZulu-Natal

The devastating impact of heavy rains, thunderstorms, and lightning in KwaZulu-Natal during December has resulted in 31 lives lost, with three individuals still missing, according to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (KZNCOGTA).

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In the latest incidents reported by KZN COGTA, a man was struck by lightning in Eshowe on New Year’s Eve, while a 64-year-old lost his life in a drowning incident while swimming on the south coast beach.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to all the affected families who have tragically lost their loved ones during a time when many were enjoying and reuniting for the festive season,” expressed KZN COGTA in a statement.

Apart from the human toll, the heavy rains have wrought havoc, causing extensive damage to households, businesses, and public infrastructure, including schools, roads, and bridges.

“As our team continues to assess the situation on the ground while providing disaster relief to affected families, preliminary reports indicate that over 600 households were affected, with over 140 dwellings completely destroyed,” remarked KZN COGTA.

Furthermore, the uThukela District bore the brunt, with 23 fatalities recorded due to floods that struck Ladysmith on Christmas Eve, along with over 100 households sustaining damage. In the Umgungundlovu District, numerous homes were damaged, two lives were lost, and one person remains missing after a car was swept away in the uMsunduzi River in Pietermaritzburg.

The King Cetshwayo District witnessed over 40 households damaged by strong winds, leading to destruction in Eshowe Industrial. Additionally, the Umzinyathi District faced over 100 affected homes and one fatality, impacting over 2000 people and rendering 21 homeless.

Moreover, KZN COGTA highlighted its swift response since the onset of the rains, providing immediate disaster relief such as blankets, plastic sheeting, box-B, and vouchers to affected families. Psychological support through the Department of Social Development and assistance with burial arrangements have also been extended.

Acknowledging the collaborative effort, KZN COGTA mentioned that a representative from the Presidency has joined their assessment efforts to ascertain potential assistance needed from the national government.

Despite the challenges posed by ongoing rainfall, KZN COGTA reassures the public that relief efforts will persist.

As the search and rescue operations continue, KZN COGTA appeals to individuals with missing loved ones due to heavy rains to report the matter urgently. Additionally, the department advises people to remain indoors, especially with the South African Weather Services issuing a Level 2 Warning for Thunderstorms in different areas of KwaZulu-Natal.

“We urge motorists to be extra vigilant on the road. Where possible, we advise people to postpone their trips until the weather has cleared. Our teams will remain on high alert to respond to disasters throughout the rainy season,” concluded KZN COGTA.

In light of these developments, we invite you to share your thoughts in the comment section below.

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