Search and rescue teams in KZN continued their search for missing residents following flooding.
- KZN residents have been warned that disruptive rains can be expected from 13:00 on Sunday, estimated to last until midnight.
- Disaster management teams will remain on high alert, after the SA Weather Service issued a level 2 weather warning.
- More than 20 people have died since flooding struck on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) has warned residents of disruptive rains that may result in localised flooding on New Year’s Eve.
It said the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has cautioned that disruptive downpours may lead to flooding in informal settlements, on low-lying roads, and low bridges across the central interior of KZN from 13:00 on Sunday, until midnight.
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“Residents are advised to avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where the water is above ankle depth.
“Those in rural areas must move animals to safer ground on higher terrain. Exercise caution while travelling on roads, as potholes may be concealed by water, and there could be sinkholes,” Cogta cautioned.
Torrential showers swept across much of the province on Christmas Day, with the rain first hitting Ladysmith.
Much of the community along the Klip River and the local caravan park were affected.
The affected areas include:
Abaqulusi, Alfred Duma, Dr Nkosazana Damini-Zuma Underberg, eDumbe, eMadlangeni Endumeni, Greater Kokstad, Impendle, Ingwe, Inkosi Langalibalele Escourt, Mkhambathini, Mpofana, Giants Castle, Mooi River,
Msinga, Nkandla, Nquthu, Richmond, Msunduzi, Ubuhlebezwe, Ulundi, uMngeni, uMshwathi, UMuziwabantu, Umvoti, Umzimkhulu, UPhongolo local municipalities.
News24 previously reported the death toll for the Christmas Day floods that hit Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal has risen to 21, according to police.
“As of Friday, 29 December 2023, a total of 21 bodies have been recovered,” KZN police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said on Saturday.
Police said at least four people were still missing.
The KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs warned residents of disruptive rains.
Supplied PHOTO: Supplied
Rescue teams searched for missing people in the wake of recent floods in KZN.
Supplied PHOTO: Supplied
This, after the search for those who went missing intensified from Thursday when additional rescue teams descended on the small town.
On Sunday morning, KZN MEC for Cogta, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, said there are many festivities planned in various areas to celebrate the incoming New Year and pleaded with residents to exercise extreme caution during celebrations to minimise the impact of the expected rains.
“We are deeply concerned about the number of fatalities caused by adverse weather conditions. We are still recovering from the devastating floods that claimed over 20 lives in the Ladysmith area.”
PICS | Ladysmith floods: Death toll rises to 21 as search continues for missing people
“We do not want to see more lives lost due to the weather. While New Year’s Eve is a cause for celebration, let us prioritise safety. We encourage everyone to stay home and ensure their surroundings are safe,” said Moloi.
Moloi said residents who will be attending festivals must adhere to the safety measures which will be in place.
“We want to see everyone safe and healthy in the coming year. Happy New Year, and I wish you all the best,” said Sithole-Moloi.
The department has activated all disaster management teams, including social partners, to remain on high alert and respond to any emergencies.
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