CITY COUNTS THE COST OF THE STORM

Pietermaritzburg is cleaning up and assessing the damages of the devastating hail storm that swept through the city last Wednesday afternoon.

Disaster management teams have commenced with mop-up operations following the severe storms that struck the province and left large-scale destruction in their wake. The pr provincial Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) has received reports of incidents that are currently being responded to by the teams.

“The department can confirm that a hail storm hit parts of Msunduzi and the Midlands and several houses were damaged. The storm also caused blackouts in a number of suburbs and technicians from the municipality are now working on the ground to restore the grid,” Cogta MEC Sipho Hlomuka said.

Panel beaters and insurance companies have been inundated with customers following the damage to residents’ homes and vehicles.

Moosa Allee insurance brokers confirmed they have already received a number of claims, but due to the widespread electricity outages following the hail storm, there has been a delay in processing the claims.

“We have already had a number of vehicle, household and equipment claims. The power outage in the area has delayed the process,” said manager, Sashina Sukdeo.

Joey’s Spray Painters has also been inundated with calls for quotes. On Thursday morning alone, they responded to 80 requests for quotes on paint damage repairs from the hail storm.

MEC Hlomuka is appealing to residents to be vigilant as the inclement weather conditions continue to pose a risk to communities in the province.

“This inclement weather is expected to cause localised flooding, hail, and lightning strikes. Residents in areas that could be affected are urged to exercise caution,” said Hlomuka.