Three people are confirmed to have died and another is still missing after being swept away by floods while trying to cross a river in KwaZulu Natal.Thirteen people were injured when the province was hit by flash floods on Tuesday, with Inanda township being the hardest hit.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), confirmed the news this morning. Spokesperson Nonala Ndlovu said so far four people have been confirmed to have lost their lives. "Three casualties were reported in the eThekwini Metro, while one person remains missing. Additionally, one fatality and four injuries were reported in the Ugu District Municipality," said Ndlovu.

Ndlovu added that preliminary reports indicate extensive damage to road infrastructure, electricity, sewer systems and housing. Many houses suffered roof damage, collapsed walls and flooding. In Durban, 70 houses were completely destroyed and a further 110 houses were partially damaged. "This has affected a total of 552 people, leaving 151 individuals homeless. In the Ugu District Municipality, one house was left completely destroyed while three others suffered partial damages affecting 29 people," Ndlovu added. The areas affected by the heavy rains and strong winds include Phoenix, Inanda, Ntuzuma, KwaMashu, Pinetown and surrounding areas all in the north of Durban.

Social Development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza said he will be providing will Social Relief of Distress to the victims today in Inanda. The victims were profiled by social workers when Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, went to assess damage in the area. Khoza said the department had the responsibility to ensure that families who have been affected are receiving adequate support and assistance in the form of Social Relief of Distress.

 Missing Thembinkosi Sihle Sibandze