Severe weather events have gripped Southern Africa, particularly KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), where heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc, leading to road accidents, flooding, and significant damage to homes across various municipalities. The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, addressed the public at the Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumulo House, detailing urgent interventions being initiated to tackle the crisis.
The low-lying areas of KZN are experiencing the worst of the weather, with various neighborhoods reporting damaged or destroyed homes. The situation is dire; eight families in Nkandla have been rendered homeless, with plans to accommodate them in Temporary Residential Units (TRUs). Four other families are set to receive construction materials to begin repairing their properties. “We are working closely with the national Department of Human Settlements to assist affected families as swiftly as possible,” Duma stated during the press briefing.
Disaster management teams have been activated and deployed throughout KZN to assess damage and provide immediate relief to those impacted. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings forecasting disruptive rain from January 6 to January 8, signaling the potential for severe flooding, particularly affecting settlements, roads, and bridges.
Areas expected to bear the brunt of this weather include eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Ray Nkonyeni, Mkhambathini, and uMhlathuze, with traffic disruptions anticipated due to possible road closures and overflowing of low-water bridges. The eThekwini municipality has proactively convened a Joint Operations Committee (JOC) alongside the Provincial Disaster Management Centre. They have included various stakeholders, such as SANRAL and local police forces, to prepare for and respond to potential emergencies.
“Our teams are steadfastly monitoring weather-prone areas and coordinating proactive responses to safeguard residents,” said Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta). Residents have been urged to stay alert and to heed safety advice from officials. Recommendations include refraining from crossing flooded roads or streams, moving to higher ground if water levels rise, and driving carefully to maintain visibility.
Reports of widespread flooding have surfaced. For example, the Pietermaritzburg-Durban N3 route is currently under water, leading to multiple accidents. Motorists traveling between these cities are advised to slow down significantly near Ashburton, where flood warnings have been established on the roads. Areas including Virginia circle, Durban North, Glenashley exit, and various major routes have also reported extensive flooding, signaling potential danger for travelers.
The reported incidents extend beyond KZN, as the SA Weather Service has issued level 8 warnings for the province, predicting widespread flooding and property damage, particularly along coastlines. Level five and level two warnings have also been issued for inland provinces like Gauteng.
The South African Weather Service emphasizes the need for residents to remain vigilant as the poor weather conditions may endanger lives and upset local infrastructure. “All stakeholders have affirmed their readiness to address any eventualities stemming from adverse weather conditions,” assured CoGTA MEC Buthelezi.
Community engagement is pivotal during this time. Residents are encouraged to report emergencies to local authorities and assist any vulnerable community members who may need help during these trying circumstances.
Looking beyond KZN, surrounding regions such as the North West, Free State, and southern Mpumalanga are also bracing for rainfall and thunderstorms over the coming days, with rainfall accumulation predictions ranging between 50mm and 70mm. Residents across these areas are similarly urged to exercise extreme caution on the roads, being aware of the hazards of slippery surfaces and possible flash flooding.
For continuous updates and safety information, the Provincial Disaster Management Centre advises staying informed through reliable sources, including official weather alerts and news outlets. Emergency teams will remain on standby throughout the province, ready to assist and provide information as the situation develops.
To minimize risks to lives and livelihoods, coordinated efforts among diverse stakeholders—local government, national agencies, and community organizations—are heavily relied upon, underscoring the importance of community resilience as KZN faces one of its most challenging weather events in recent memory.