Five dead after devastating floods in KZN

KZN

Durban — Clean-up operations have begun in Margate in Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) following devastating thunderstorms and floods that claimed the lives of five people.

The KZN department of cooperative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) confirmed that three people drowned after their vehicle was washed away in the floods, while another person was struck by lightning. The fifth victim died after falling through a roof while trying to stop gushing floods, IOL reported.

KZN Cogta member of the executive council (MEC), Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, said heavy rains caused extensive damage to homes and infrastructure including; roads, sewer infrastructure, traffic lights, and electricity. A car dealership was extensively damaged with seven vehicles being washed away.

She added that several roads and businesses were closed, while beaches in the Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality remained temporarily closed as a precautionary measure.

“The beaches, including Hibberdene, Mzumbe, Southport, St. Michaels, Uvongo, Manaba, Margate, Ramsgate, Trafalgar, and Port Edward, will remain closed until further notice.” she said.

According to SABC News, KZN Cogta spokesperson, Siboniso Mngadi, said estensive damage has been caused and he urged intervention from the national government.

“The damage is extensive and a number of businesses remain closed because of the infrastructure that was severely damaged but we have brought together a number of departments and the MEC has also informed the national determination to come and intervene,” Mngadi said.

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Compiled by Matthew Petersen

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