Disaster management teams are on heightened alert following the issuance of a Level 5 weather warning by the South African Weather Services for the province. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, the KZN MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), stated that the severe weather warning is due to anticipated heavy rainfall, which poses a significant risk of widespread flooding.

COMMUNITIES IN LOW-LYING AREAS ADVISED TO SEEK SAFER SHELTER

According to Buthelezi, this will affect uMdoni, eThekwini, uMkhambathini, Ray Nkonyeni, and uMzumbe municipalities today. "Initial reports indicate that road infrastructure in and around the eThekwini metro is already experiencing flooding, underscoring the severity of the situation. The South African Weather Service has issued this urgent alert due to the intensity of the anticipated rainfall and the potential for significant disruption,' Buthelezi said. Additionally, a Level 4 weather warning has been issued for several districts, including parts of uThukela, Harry Gwala, Ugu, uMzinyathi, Amajuba, and uMgungundlovu. Communities residing in low-lying areas and near riverbanks have been urged to immediately seek shelter on higher ground. Residents are also advised to avoid all non-essential travel and remain indoors where possible. "The safety of our communities is our utmost priority. We implore all residents to heed this warning and take the necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and their families. Disaster management teams throughout the province are on high alert and are actively monitoring areas susceptible to flooding,' the MEC added.

SEVEN FATALITIES IN LESS THAN A WEEK

Buthelezi confirmed that seven people have passed away since Monday this week, while one person is still missing due to the floods, primarily affecting the eThekwini Metro. In Durban, Lamontville, five people drowned after being swept away during a flooding incident. In Chatsworth, one person died from injuries they suffered when the house they were in collapsed due to a mudslide, while another person drowned in Malangane, in the uMdoni area. All the fatalities took place on the 26th of February. Currently, we are dealing with a new weather warning. Buthelezi said his department will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.