Disaster teams begins mop-up operation after a weekend of gale-force wind

KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) is taking stock of the two days of heavy rain and strong gale force winds that have caused numerous weather-related incidents across the province. The department is also embarking on a clean-up operation to ensure that life throughout KZN returns to normal.

Over the weekend KZN experienced inclement weather conditions moving in from the west as predicted by the South African Weather Service.

“Our disaster teams have logged and responded to several incidents in Ugu, eThekwini and Ladysmith, which impacted on both public infrastructure and private property and disrupted lives in most parts of the province. The interim assessments reveal that houses had roofs blown away, trees falling over and blocking roads and damaging property and vehicles,” said KZN MEC for Cogta Nomusa Dube-Ncube.

At least 3 people reported to be critically injured and were admitted to hospital.  No deaths are reported at this stage.

“All reported incidents are being attended to promptly by our disaster management teams which provided immediate disaster relief. We are still assessing the long-term impact of damages to roads, public infrastructure and facilities as well as private properties and we continue to offer assistance to all concerned,” said Dube-Ncube.

KZN Cogta’s disaster management teams are working around the clock throughout the weekend in close cooperation with all District Disaster Management Centres that serve individual municipalities.

“We are responding to the emergencies on the ground with shorter response times and more comprehensive relief packages. We would like to thank all our disaster management teams for their dedication which has mitigated the impact of many disasters for the communities that have no one else to turn to when disasters strike,” said Dube-Ncube.

For more information contact: KZN Cogta spokespersons Lennox Mabaso, 082 884 2403; or Msawakhe Mayisela, 060 966 4220

ENDS