KwaZulu-Natal officials say no deaths have been reported following destructive storms that swept through parts of the province, as teams begin clearing debris and restoring services in affected areas.
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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs says mop-up operations have begun following severe storms that struck coastal areas, including eThekwini and Pietermaritzburg.
In a statement issued Monday, the department said: “Mop-up operations have commenced following severe storms that have impacted coastal areas, including eThekwini and Pietermaritzburg.
The storms - “characterised by gale-force winds, thunder and hail” - uprooted trees, damaged power lines and flooded major roads, the department said.
Technical assessments are under way in both areas to determine the full extent of the damage.
“The KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, through the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, is working closely with the affected municipalities to restore services and clear debris,” it said.
The department said no fatalities have been reported.
“A comprehensive update will be provided once technical assessments are concluded,” the department added.
Meanwhile, conditions on the ground have deteriorated in recent days, with significant flooding reported on major routes and in residential areas.
Fallen trees and rising water levels have made travel highly hazardous.
Heavy rain and debris have further complicated navigation, with some vehicles seen stranded in floodwaters in parts of the province.
The EThekwini Municipality’s Disaster Management confirmed that its team was on the ground and working tirelessly following the severe rainstorm that struck the city, leaving widespread flooding, fallen trees, and damaged vehicles across several areas.
This comes after heavy rains caused significant disruption, with numerous roads submerged, vehicles damaged, and trees blocking key routes.
The municipality said the Disaster Management, together with Recreation and Parks teams, were immediately deployed and continues to respond to incidents, clear obstructions, and restore access in affected areas.
Affected areas include:
- Durban Central and Southern Region: The hardest hit area, with 22 incidents reported, particularly in Chatsworth and Morningside. Flooded roads and fallen trees caused major traffic disruptions.
- Western Region: 13 incidents recorded, with Westville among the most affected. Teams are clearing debris, managing waterlogged roads, and assessing damage to safeguard residents.
- Northern Region: Seven incidents reported, with Newlands West bearing the brunt. Emergency crews are addressing flooded roads and storm-related hazards.
The municipality urged residents to exercise extreme caution, avoid flooded roads, and report hazards such as fallen trees, damaged power lines, or blocked routes through official municipal channels.
“Motorists are strongly advised not to attempt crossing flooded roads, as water levels may be deeper and more dangerous than they appear.”
“EThekwini remains committed to prioritising the safety and wellbeing of residents. Teams are working around the clock to restore normality, reduce risks, and provide support where needed. In case of an emergency, contact the City’s Disaster Management Centre on 031 361 0000.”
It added that further updates will be shared throughout the day as Disaster Management teams are on the ground and continue to assess the damage.
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