Clean-up operations are underway in KwaZulu Natal after this week's devastating rains. The deadly storms claimed the lives of eleven people leaving over 50 injured. The storms also damaged homes and infrastructure different parts of KZN.

HEAVY TORNADO 

The KZN government said that they are working tirelessly to assist the community of Tongaat, outside Durban, where seven people lost their lives on Monday night when tornado hit the area. The heavy rains accompanied by the strong winds wreaked havoc in different parts of the KZN province affecting five districts including the eThekwini Metro, Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, Umzinyathi, Amajuba and Umkhanyakude District municipalities.

FATALITIES

In Tongaat, seven people were killed when their houses collapsed. The other four fatalities were reported in Nquthu, Eshowe and KwaHlabisa respectively. Over 55 people suffered minor injuries and are receiving medical treatment in different hospital. According to Cogta spokesperson, Nolana Ndlovu, at least 120 people have been displaced and three temporary shelters have been established where the affected families are receiving humanitarian aid.

CLEANING OPERATIONS

Ndlovu said disaster teams are currently assessing the extent of the damage while providing immediate relief, including accommodating displaced residents in government buildings. "The provincial government, through Cogta, has coordinated the disaster team from affected municipalities to provide temporary shelter to those who may need it. Public facilities have been opened as safe havens for the affected communities as the assessment continues. Roads are being cleared using TLBs to ensure that rescue workers are able to attend to the injured," Ndlovu added.