Mop-up operations underway following damaging storms in KZN

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DURBAN – The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) has initiated comprehensive mop-up operations across the province, particularly within the eThekwini Metro, following the severe weather conditions experienced yesterday.

Tragically, the torrential rainfall resulted in the loss of life, with a woman succumbing after her vehicle was swept off a bridge in Pinetown. MEC for Cogta, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has extended his condolences to the bereaved family. Search and Rescue teams successfully recovered both the vehicle and the deceased’s body in the early hours of this morning.

The intense downpour wreaked havoc across coastal regions, leading to widespread flooding, uprooted trees, and significant disruptions to electricity supply in numerous communities. Technical teams are working diligently to restore power to affected areas.

The Provincial Disaster Management Centre is actively coordinating with all municipalities to assess the full extent of the damage caused by the heavy rains. Preliminary reports indicate substantial impact on road infrastructure and disruptions to service delivery.

MEC Buthelezi has issued a strong appeal to residents to remain vigilant, as a Level 6 weather warning remains in effect for the eThekwini Metro, and parts of the Ugu, iLembe, and uMgungundlovu Districts. A Level 4 warning is also still active for the remaining areas of the province.

"We urge all residents to heed the weather warnings and exercise extreme caution. These conditions pose a significant risk to human life and livestock," emphasised MEC Buthelezi.



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