New Hanover, 24 November 2025 – The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has today provided a critical update on the disaster response following the severe weather and flooding incidents that swept across the uMshwathi Local Municipality on Sunday evening.
MEC Buthelezi regretfully confirms that Search and Rescue teams have recovered the body of one of the three individuals who were swept away by the floodwaters in the New Hanover area.
The deceased has been identified as a middle-aged female.
The search and rescue operation for the two remaining missing individuals is intensifying and continues without interruption.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss of life and extend our sincerest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased,” said MEC Buthelezi.
“The provincial government mourns with you. Our dedicated search and rescue teams are working around the clock, under difficult conditions, to locate the two individuals still unaccounted for.”
Disaster Management teams are currently conducting comprehensive rapid assessments across the uMgungundlovu District to quantify the full extent of the destruction.
Preliminary information indicates that multiple residential properties have been severely damaged or destroyed, with flood-prone informal settlements being particularly hard hit.
MEC Buthelezi has activated a multi-sectoral relief plan focused on providing immediate humanitarian assistance. Efforts include:
- Providing essential supplies to affected households.
- Coordinating short-term housing solutions for displaced families in consultation with line function departments.
- Working closely with the uMshwathi Local Municipality to ensure immediate needs are met.
The severe weather, which followed Level 5 and Level 4 alerts issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), has caused widespread devastation. While the alerts may be easing, the danger remains.
The public is urged to exercise the utmost caution and to not, under any circumstances, attempt to cross low-lying bridges or swollen rivers.
Residents are also urged to cooperate fully with disaster management and traffic officials on the ground.