Durban - Msunduzi Municipality has issued a warning for the public to avoid travelling and crossing low-lying bridges in the flood affected wards after heavy rains on Wednesday affected dozens of families.
In a statement on Thursday, the municipality said the heavy rains caused the Msunduzi River to burst its banks, resulting in flooding affecting various communities.
“The Disaster Management teams and Area Based Management attended to reports of flooding affecting wards 11,16, 21, 22 and 23,” said the city.
The municipality said it continues to receive reports of a number of roads and bridges that are blocked, damaged and inaccessible due to mudslides in different areas.
This may restrict access and also affect service delivery, said the city.
“The residents are urged to avoid unnecessary journeys and activities that may be unsafe, and those residing in low-lying areas are advised to seek shelter on higher ground or contact the Emergency Control Centre or their ward councillor for assistance,” it said.
The municipality also urged residents to avoid swimming in or crossing swollen rivers and overflowing bridges.
Some of the overflowing bridges to be avoided include Grimthorpe Road, Woodhouse Road in Sobantu, Masons Mill, Willow Fountain, Smero, Henley village, among others.
The city called on residents to report incidents to their respective ward councillors or Emergency Communication Centre on 0800033911.