Weather warning issued as heavy rain, flooding hit KZN

Heavy rains have already wreaked havoc across KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), causing road accidents, flooding, and destruction to homes in various municipalities.

MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, addressed the public at Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumulo House today, outlining urgent interventions to tackle the crisis.

Low-lying areas in KZN are bearing the brunt of heavy rainfall and strong winds, with several homes damaged or destroyed. In Nkandla, eight families have been left homeless and will be accommodated in Temporary Residential Units (TRUs). Four additional families will receive building materials to begin repairs.

“We are working closely with the national Department of Human Settlements to assist affected families promptly,” said MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma. Disaster management teams have been dispatched to municipalities across the province to assess damage and provide immediate relief.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) warning for disruptive rainfall is from today, Monday January 6, to Wednesday January 8. The inclement weather is expected to cause:

Flooding of settlements, roads, and bridges; damage to mud-based homes and infrastructure; and traffic disruptions on major routes due to closures of roads and low-water bridges.

Areas likely to be affected include eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Ray Nkonyeni, Mkhambathini, uMhlathuze, and more.

The eThekwini municipality, this morning, with the Provincial Disaster Management Centre convened a Joint Operations Committee (JOC) with stakeholders such as SANRAL, SAPS, and municipal practitioners to prepare for weather-related emergencies.

Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), has placed disaster management teams on high alert. “Our teams are monitoring weather-prone areas and coordinating responses to ensure the safety of residents,” he said.

Residents are urged to stay vigilant and follow these safety measures

• Avoid crossing flooded roads or streams.
• Move to higher ground if water levels rise.
• Avoid low-lying bridges and routes prone to flooding.
• Drive at reduced speeds with headlights on and ensure clear visibility.

Areas already flooded include

• Pietermaritzburg-Durban N3 route flooded, multiple accidents reported. Motorists travelling between Pietermaritzburg and Durban are advised to slow down almost to a stop at the bottom of Ashburton.
• The N3 between Cato Ridge and Ashburton is experiencing some serious flooding. Don’t attempt to try crossing flooded areas if you're inexperienced or it appears to be flowing at all.The N3 between Ashburton and Marrianhill Toll Plaza has had some serious rain so please be very aware.
• Virginia circle, Durban North, Glenashley exit flooded.
• Phoenix Industrial Park to M25, then N2: Heavy rain and flooding at the usual lanes with poor visibility.
• Everest Heights Bridge by Shari Drive: The bridge is flooded.
• Seacow Lake Road: The road is flooded in both directions near KZN Oils. Please use alternate routes.
• Bridge between Lincoln (Grimthorpe Ave) Meade and Bishopstow in PIetermaritzburg: The bridge is in full flood. Please adjust your route.
• NMR/Somtseu Road: The lane is flooded heading into town.
• M4 Southern Freeway: The left-hand lane is flooded just before the off-ramp to Victoria Embankment.
• Stanger OK Furniture parking lot: The road is flooded behind the parking lot.
• Balcomb Street: Caution is advised due to flooding.
• Umbilo joining Edwin Swales: The bridge is flooded. The left lanes are also flooded outside Southway Mall.