The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life and extensive damage caused by severe thunderstorms and heavy rains that struck the Ugu District Municipality and parts of eThekwini yesterday, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
The storms triggered widespread flooding in areas including Margate and Port Shepstone, resulting in significant damage to homes and infrastructure. In the Ugu District, two fatalities have been confirmed:
- A 63-year-old woman lost her life when the house she was in collapsed during a mudslide in Bomela, under the Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality.
- In a separate incident, a 46-year-old man drowned after being swept away by floodwaters in Qholoqholo, under the Umzumbe Local Municipality.
In eThekwini, a vehicle carrying five (5) occupants was swept away by floodwaters on a low-lying bridge in Amanzimtoti following heavy rainfall. While two (2) occupants managed to escape from the wreckage, search and rescue teams have since recovered the bodies of two (2) males, aged between 25 and 40. One (1) person still remains missing, and search efforts are continuing as a matter of urgency.
Premier Ntuli visited the affected communities today to assess the damage and lead coordinated relief efforts.
The Premier also met with grieving families to offer support and comfort during this difficult time. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones. The Provincial Government is mobilising all available resources to assist affected communities and ensure that urgent relief reaches those in need,” said Premier Ntuli.
Disaster Management teams have commenced mop-up operations following the devastating rains, which uprooted trees and damaged roads, homes, and commercial properties.
The Premier has called upon residents to remain vigilant, as inclement weather conditions are expected to persist throughout KwaZulu-Natal.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government urges residents to follow safety advisories issued by local authorities and avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding.
ENDS