MEC Buthelezi mobilises disaster teams in response to KZN storms
Homes in Impendle left in ruins after severe storms, displacing families and prompting immediate disaster response efforts.
Image: Social Media/ KZN COGTA
KwaZulu-Natal's MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has swiftly mobilised provincial disaster management teams to assess and respond to the aftermath of fierce storms that lashed the region over the weekend, leading to one tragic death and the displacement of numerous families.
The storm, which began on Friday, 6 February, was characterised by gale-force winds, severe hail, and intense lightning, unleashing devastation across parts of the province. The most harrowing incident occurred in Mzimkhulu’s Ward 15, where a resident was struck and killed by lightning. Additionally, three others were injured in Ward 12 and are currently receiving medical treatment. MEC Buthelezi has extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and wishes those injured a swift recovery.
Disaster management teams are actively conducting damage assessments and coordinating relief efforts to assist affected communities. In Impendle, part of the uMgungundlovu District, 12 households suffered losses, with seven homes reduced to rubble, leaving four families without shelter. In response, teams are distributing food parcels, blankets, and hygiene kits in collaboration with the Department of Social Development.
Meanwhile, the Harry Gwala District also faced significant challenges, with at least 11 homes damaged by hail, and a rockfall in Ward 1 obstructing crucial road access. Efforts are underway to clear the blocked routes and restore accessibility for residents.
Adding to the alarming situation, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued an Orange Level 6 warning on Sunday for severe thunderstorms across parts of the Eastern Cape, with alerts indicating potential heavy downpours, damaging winds, and further hail storms. This warning highlights areas such as Amathole, OR Tambo, Alfred Nzo District Municipality, and Buffalo City Metro as particularly vulnerable.
MEC Buthelezi joins disaster management teams as they mobilise resources to assist communities affected by the recent storms.
Image: Supplied
A prohibition has been advised, with SAWS warning that flooding of roads and communities, damage to infrastructure and property, and disruptions to electricity supply are likely consequences of the anticipated storms. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant as the authorities monitor weather conditions.
SAWS forecaster Tokelo Chiloane said: "The Level 2 and Level 4 warnings remain in place over southern and western KwaZulu-Natal, where we are expecting most of the rainfall,” Chiloane said. “However, the system generating this weather is slowly moving out of the country. We are still concerned about parts of the Eastern Cape, where heavy rainfall has already led to flooding.”
In the Western Cape, a separate Yellow Level 4 warning was issued by SAWS for the Cape Winelands and Overberg regions, signalling potential showers and thunderstorms that could also lead to severe weather-related incidents, including flooding and hail. Predictions for rainfall range from 40mm to 70mm, with some areas exceeding 100mm.
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Saturday Star