Unfavorable weather conditions in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) since the beginning of the festive season have led to the tragic loss of 40 lives across the province, with an additional five individuals still unaccounted for.
The provincial disaster management team revealed that the casualties include people who drowned, victims of flash floods in Ladysmith, and individuals struck by lightning. The death toll in Ladysmith alone rose to 25, following the retrieval of two more bodies.
The KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has issued a warning to residents to remain vigilant, as heavy rains are expected to persist. Nonala Ndlovu, a spokesperson for the department, provided an update on the situation, stating, “The rains have also left 74 people injured. 47 people have been left homeless and are residing with relatives and neighbors, as they are mostly from rural areas. A total of 814 households were affected.”
The adverse weather conditions have not only resulted in a significant loss of life but have also left numerous individuals injured, homeless, and communities in distress. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and caution during the persistent harsh weather conditions in the region.