Storm lashes northern KZN: Dozens displaced as homes destroyed
The most affected municipalities include eMadlangeni, Dannhauser, and Newcastle.
Image: KZN Cogta / Facebook
About 50 houses were destroyed and several others were damaged when heavy rains, accompanied by hail and gale-force winds hit northern KwaZulu-Natal including Newcastle, Utrecht and Dannhauser.
In a statement, the KZN Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs department said that on Friday that disaster management teams had been dispatched to the Amajuba and Umzinyathi Districts following a trail of destruction left by severe thunderstorms on Friday afternoon.
“Our teams are currently on the ground conducting mop-up operations and detailed assessments to ensure no family is left stranded. We are working around the clock with our social partners to restore dignity to those who have lost their homes today. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured,” said Cogta MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi.
Approximately 50 homes were completely destroyed.
Image: KZN Cogta / Facebook
The department said the eMadlangeni, Dannhauser, and Newcastle Local Municipalities bore the brunt of the storm, with reports of damage also emerging from parts of the Umzinyathi District.
eMadlangeni (Utrecht): In Wards 2, 3, and 5, preliminary reports confirm that over 20 houses have been completely destroyed. Three individuals sustained injuries and are receiving urgent medical care.
Newcastle: Several areas were hit hard; the department has initiated the emergency relocation of displaced residents to the Osizweni Community Hall.
Dannhauser: Approximately 115 households were affected with 30 completely destroyed.
Umzinyathi District: Assessments are currently underway in Dundee and surrounding areas where infrastructure and trees were uprooted.
Disaster management teams have been dispatched to all affected areas.
Image: KZN Cogta / Facebook
The department said MEC Buthelezi has directed the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) to coordinate with social partners and local municipalities to provide immediate relief, including food parcels, blankets, and temporary shelter.
The Newcastle Municipality said in a statement that the storm resulted in fallen trees and branches on various roadways, as well as dislodged electrical boxes, kiosk doors, and panels, particularly along Victoria Road.
“Response teams are working diligently to restore normal conditions as quickly and safely as possible. As a precautionary measure, temporary power interruptions may occur in some areas while safety assessments and repairs are conducted. Further communication will be shared should this be necessary,” the municipality said.
The PDMC remains on high alert as weather conditions across the province remain volatile.
- Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution:
- Stay off the roads: Avoid crossing low-lying bridges or flooded walkways.
- Seek Shelter: Remain indoors during lightning and heavy winds; stay away from windows.
- Report Incidents: Residents are encouraged to report any life-threatening situations to their local ward councillors or municipal disaster units immediately.