Renewed flooding hits KZN

As KwaZulu-Natal continues to experience heavy rains that are causing floods in the area, more than 200 people have been evacuated from their homes.

Co-operative governance MEC Sipho Hlomuka said the rain was continuing to cause havoc.

“Overnight, the province yet again underwent some of the worst storms that have been accompanied by floods resulting in the destruction that comes with such situations,” Hlomuka said.

“We are yet to receive a full comprehensive report on the impact of these latest heavy rains, but as reports come in a worrying picture is emerging.”

The MEC said the storm, according to the SA Weather Service prediction, was later to move up the coast, affecting the northern districts of King Cetshwayo and Mkhanyakude.

Hlomuka said the province received a level 10 early alert warning from the weather service about disruptive rainfall predicted for several areas.

He said the heavy rainfalls had resulted in flooding of roads and human settlements, and damaged properties, with several roads around Pinetown and surrounding areas temporarily closed due to flooding.

Several roads and bridges in eThekwini, especially uMdloti, La Mercy and others have been affected and road users have been urged to be on the alert.

“We understand that some areas are inaccessible and have become islands at this stage,” Hlomuka said.

“Water levels are being closely monitored in various areas that are prone to flooding so that appropriate measures will be effected.

“The department has appealed to the SANDF to be deployed to the northern parts of Durban for urgent response.”