Rain, winds wreak havoc across KZN as province braces for more downpours and thunderstorms
KwaZulu-Natal disaster teams are busy with clean-up operations across parts of the province following heavy rainfall and gale winds on Sunday night.
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) said already several homes were damaged by the inclement weather.
"Key infrastructure affected includes the Harry Gwala Regional Hospital (formerly Edendale Hospital) and the Aloe Ridge Social Housing Project. Teams are on the ground, and a clearer picture of the extent of the damage will emerge once all assessments are concluded," the department said.
The severe weather is expected to persist for most of Monday.
The South African Weather Service (Saws) forecast severe thunderstorms resulting in damage or loss of infrastructure, settlements and major travel disruptions and disruptions of municipal and other essential service, heavy downpours, hail, strong damaging winds as well as excessive lightning over the southern parts of KZN.
Affected areas include; eThekwini Metro and the districts of uThukela, uMzinyathi, uMgungundlovu, Harry Gwala, Ugu, and iLembe.
"These conditions are likely to cause disruptions, including falling trees blocking major roads, power surges disrupting services, danger to life, both human and livestock, due to excessive lightning, and damage to structures from hail and wind," Cogta added.
Cogta MEC in KZN, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, urged residents to stay safe.
"Residents are advised to follow safety measures as these weather conditions pose significant risks to human life. Disaster management teams will continue to monitor the weather, especially in areas susceptible to weather-related incidents," he said.
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