In February, severe weather in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, resulted in 22 fatalities and extensive damage estimated at 3.1 billion rand. The provincial government has declared a National State of Disaster to coordinate recovery efforts and support affected communities. Continued rainfall is anticipated, prompting officials to advise vigilance among residents.
Severe weather incidents occurring in the latter half of February have tragically resulted in the loss of 22 lives and extensive property damage across KwaZulu-Natal Province in South Africa. This was reported by a provincial government official, as noted by News.az and citing Xinhua. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, the provincial executive council member for cooperative governance and traditional affairs, commented on the substantial impact of these events and the government’s response.
In an official statement, Buthelezi expressed gratitude for the National Disaster Management Center’s declaration of a National State of Disaster due to the severe weather conditions affecting the region from February 16 to 28. He detailed that the weather events inflicted approximately 3.1 billion rand (about 170 million U.S. dollars) in damages. The consequences of these events have drastically disrupted essential services, including water and electricity supply, and led to significant infrastructural damage.
Buthelezi reassured the citizens of KwaZulu-Natal of the government’s commitment to collaborate with the NDMC, local municipalities, and relevant stakeholders, ensuring an efficient response and recovery process. He emphasized the dedication to providing necessary support to the affected communities while also focusing on the reconstruction of resilient infrastructure.
Furthermore, he highlighted that the National State of Disaster designation would enable resource mobilization across various government sectors. This would enhance support efforts, implement contingency measures, and initiate a comprehensive relief and rehabilitation plan to lessen the impact of this disaster. With additional rain anticipated in the near future, he advised all residents to remain alert and heed warnings from the South African Weather Service.
The severe weather that struck KwaZulu-Natal Province in mid-February has led to significant devastation, claiming 22 lives and causing damages estimated at approximately 3.1 billion rand. The declaration of a National State of Disaster by the NDMC aims to streamline recovery efforts and mobilize resources for affected communities. Authorities urge vigilance among the public in light of impending weather threats.
Original Source: news.az
