The MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has praised disaster response teams, first aid responders, social partners, and all government agencies for their swift action following the snowstorm that hit the Midlands on Friday and Saturday. These teams worked tirelessly throughout the weekend under challenging conditions to reach stranded motorists and provide relief, preventing what could have been a mass casualty event.
Rev Buthelezi has also extended his condolences to the family of Ms Nozibele Nzonzo, 39, who tragically passed away on Saturday after being exposed to extreme cold while stuck in a taxi caught in the snowstorm.
With all routes now reopened, motorists are urged to drive safely. The department also alerts communities downstream of the Tugela River catchment areas to the potential flooding due to snowmelt in the highlands.
Particularly with schools closed, parents are advised to ensure that children do not play near unguarded large bodies of water, especially rivers and dams. Disaster management teams will continue to monitor areas along the Tugela River, from Ladysmith to uMsinga.
WATER SAFETY MESSAGES
- Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters.
- Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
- Determine your best protection based on the type of flooding.
- Evacuate if instructed to do so.
- Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
- Stay where you are.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE UNDER A FLOOD WARNING
- Find safe shelter immediately.
- Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
- Remember, just 15 centimetres of moving water can knock you down, and 30 centimetres can sweep your vehicle away.
- Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
- Depending on the type of flooding:
- Evacuate if instructed to do so.
- Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
- Stay where you are.
Issued by the KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.