KZN activates disaster teams

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According to the warning from the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the heavy downpours may result in some areas receiving rainfall accumulation of more than 200mm over a 24-hour period, which may lead to flooding of settlements and roads, damage to houses, and the displacement of communities over the extreme south-eastern part of the province.

In a statement issued on Monday, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs said areas that are likely to be affected include eThekwini Metro, Umdoni, Umzumbe and Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipalities.

The department said disaster teams reported that flood damage occurred in Margate town on Sunday night, which was caused by severe thunderstorms.

The department said businesses and public infrastructure, including roads and houses, have been severely damaged.

“No injuries or fatalities have been confirmed at this stage. Our teams are currently conducting an assessment. Updates will be communicated in due course.

“The public is advised to take precautionary measures by moving to safer places and avoid travelling to mitigate risk. These thunderstorms may cause localised damage to settlements, vehicles, livelihood, livestock and power surges due to excessive lightning,” the department said.

The department has also warned the public of the dangers of lightning and advised communities to seek shelter in safe places.

“Public facilities, such as community halls, are open as safe havens for those in need of shelter. Our teams may have to evacuate people should they foresee high risk of danger due to the inclement weather.

“Motorists are strongly advised to avoid travelling during this period, as bridges may become flooded, posing a risk to life,” the department said.