KwaZulu-Natal is experiencing further flooding due to heavy rainfall, worsening previous damage and leaving many homeless. Recent floods have caused over 20 deaths and significant destruction of infrastructure. Authorities are urging residents to seek shelter and avoid travel as emergency services respond to this ongoing crisis.
KwaZulu-Natal, particularly the eThekwini region, has recently endured additional flooding due to severe rainfall, complicating recovery efforts from earlier disastrous floods. The rising water levels have resulted in an increase in homelessness, as more individuals have been displaced, alongside widespread disruptions to local traffic and businesses.
In the last two months, flooding in KwaZulu-Natal has tragically resulted in the deaths of over 20 individuals. The South African Weather Service has increased its alert level to five, indicating imminent flooding risks in susceptible regions. Predictions suggest heavy rain will lead to exacerbated flooding and dangerous lightning in both the western and southern portions of the province.
Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, the Member of the Executive Council for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs in KwaZulu-Natal, highlighted the extensive damages incurred, stating, “We have lost more than 20 people in the last two months, and we continue to count the costs, especially the destruction of public infrastructure like roads, clinics, and homes. The cost of these floods runs into hundreds of millions.”
Currently, over 3,600 families have been relocated, and 2,224 housing units have been destroyed. A significant number of residents continue to await temporary housing solutions. Emergency services, various government departments, and non-governmental organizations such as Gift of the Givers and Al-Imdaad Foundation are providing vital assistance to flood victims.
Officials have strongly encouraged residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel as a safety precaution. Reverend Buthelezi expressed concern over the conditions, stating, “We strongly urge residents in low-lying areas, and those who are near river banks, to immediately move away and seek shelter on higher ground.” Authorities remain vigilant amid fears of further severe storms and associated flooding.
In conclusion, KwaZulu-Natal continues to grapple with the devastating impact of ongoing floods, leading to fatalities and extensive infrastructural damage. Authorities are focused on managing the crisis, urging residents to seek safety and shelter. The collaborative efforts of government and NGOs aim to support those affected as the region prepares for continued severe weather conditions.
Original Source: allafrica.com
