One dead as KZN storms hit Harry Gwala, uMgungundlovu
Homes in Harry Gwala District Municipality were struck by lightning during a severe storm in KwaZulu-Natal.
Image: KZN Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs
Provincial disaster management teams have been deployed to parts of KwaZulu-Natal after violent weekend storms left one person dead, several injured, and dozens of families without shelter in the Harry Gwala and uMgungundlovu districts.
The storms, which struck from Friday 6 February 2026 through Saturday, intensified into a Level 5 disaster as gale-force winds, heavy rain, and hail battered communities, causing extensive damage to homes, roads, and other infrastructure.
The most severe impact on residents was recorded in the Harry Gwala District. In uMzimkhulu’s Ward 15, a resident was killed after being struck by lightning while at work on Friday.
In a separate incident in Ward 12, three people were injured by lightning strikes and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Homes were damaged in Harry Gwala District and in uMngungundlovu District.
Image: KZN Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, the Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family and expressed concern for those recovering from their injuries.
According to the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), assessment teams authorised by the MEC are already on the ground to evaluate damage and coordinate immediate relief efforts.
In the uMgungundlovu District in the KZN Midlands, Impendle Local Municipality was among the hardest hit.
Twelve households in Ward 5, including 18 children and two elderly residents, were severely affected after seven homes were completely destroyed. Four families were left destitute. COGTA, working alongside the Department of Social Development, has begun distributing emergency food parcels, blankets, and hygiene packs to affected residents.
In the Harry Gwala District, beyond the reported lightning incidents, at least 11 homes were damaged by hailstorms. Disaster response teams are also addressing a major rockfall in Ward 1, which has blocked road access and hindered the delivery of assistance to remote communities.
“Our priority is the safety and dignity of those who have lost everything in these storms,” said MEC Buthelezi. “We are fast-tracking the provision of building materials and temporary shelter to ensure that no family is left exposed to the elements. We remain in a state of high alert.”
Authorities have warned that the situation remains dangerous as the ground across affected areas is heavily saturated, increasing the risk of secondary disasters such as further rockfalls and structural collapses. Residents have been urged to stay alert, follow weather advisories, and avoid compromised buildings.
The provincial government has indicated that disaster response operations will continue as assessments are finalised and longer-term recovery measures are implemented.
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