Flash floods wreak havoc on KZN South Coast, disaster teams deployed
KZN COGTA has reported a large sinkhole on Manaba Beach Road following Sunday’s flash floods.
Image: Supplied
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has deployed disaster management teams to the Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality following devastating flash floods along the coastal belt from Margate through Oslo Beach to Port Shepstone.
The intense rainfall, which began at around 16:30 pm on Sunday, December 21, 2025, caused widespread damage to roads, commercial properties, and shopping centres, including the Shelly Centre.
According to the department, no fatalities or injuries have been reported so far.
However, significant damage has been recorded to both public and private infrastructure, and multiple roads remain obstructed by fallen trees.
Sinkholes have also formed in several areas, particularly in Manaba, raising concerns about road safety.
Flash floods hit Ray Nkonyeni, KwaZulu-Natal, damaging roads, homes, and shopping centres.
Image: Supplied
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for COGTA, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, said the authorities were “profoundly relieved that no loss of life or injuries have been reported at this stage.”
He added that provincial Disaster Management teams and Fire and Rescue Services had been fully deployed and were on high alert.
He emphasised that the immediate priority was to ensure the safety of residents and to stabilise the affected areas with urgency.
Buthelezi said the provincial and municipal disaster management units, together with Fire and Rescue Services, were conducting emergency interventions, clearing debris from main arterial routes, and carrying out formal damage assessments.
Emergency responders will remain stationed in the area while the South African Weather Service (SAWS) continues to monitor weather conditions, he said.
The department has urged residents to exercise extreme caution, avoid crossing flooded bridges or low-lying roads, stay clear of areas where sinkholes have been identified, and report all emergencies immediately to local municipal authorities.
hope.ntanzi@iol.co.za
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