Bodies of two flood victims recovered in New Hanover two weeks after severe storm
The bodies of two floods victims were recovered in Umshwathi Local Municipality in the KZN Midlands on Wednesday.
Image: File: KZN Cogta
The search for victims of the devastating New Hanover floods reached a decisive moment today after two bodies were recovered in the uMshwathi Local Municipality two weeks after a severe storm lashed the area in the KZN Midlands.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, confirmed the discovery of the bodies of the flood victims, describing it as a significant development in the ongoing search and recovery mission.
The floods, which battered the area on November 23, damaged several homes and swept away three people. One body was recovered the following day, leaving two still missing. Search operations continued for the two flood victims leading to the recover of the bodies on Wednesday.
“This morning, two bodies were discovered in the affected area. Disaster management teams are currently undertaking the extraction process,” the MEC announced.
He added that a full identification process would be completed “in collaboration with the families.”
Reverend Buthelezi said the development “brings us closer to closing a very painful chapter for the New Hanover community in uMshwathi, which lost three lives due to severe weather conditions.”
The MEC has deployed senior officials from the Provincial Disaster Management Centre to ensure the extraction and recovery takes places with “the utmost dignity.”
He also extended his condolences once again to the bereaved families and praised the persistence shown by those involved in the rescue efforts. “We commend the brave and tireless work of the community together with the search and rescue teams,” he said. “Our focus now is on supporting the families through this final, difficult stage and ensuring a respectful recovery of the victims.”
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, working closely with the uMshwathi Municipality, has committed to continuing all necessary support and assistance to the families affected by the tragedy.