Siphelele Nketo
HEAVY rains and strong winds in the KwaZulu-Natal province have claimed lives and caused widespread damage to homes, leaving a number of families without shelter.
The recent severe weather conditions included gale-force winds, hail and lightning. In the Harry Gwala district, three lives were lost as a result of lightning strikes.
The victims were: Thembisile Khumalo (45) of the Ngwaqa village, Mayford Khanyisani Zulu (36) of KwaNokweja and Shonaphi Phikisile Mhlongo (66) of Springville.
In Umzimkhulu, six wards were affected by the disaster.
According to preliminary reports in Ixopo under the Johannes Phumani Phungula Local Municipality, seven wards were affected, with a total of 113 residents.
Zakhele Mtolo, the Johannes Phumani Phungula Local Municipality spokesperson, said that storms left 33 people homeless and 18 people were offered support after experiencing trauma.
He said 11 households were given plastic sheets to cover roofs that were partially blown away by strong winds. Mtolo said that the sheets were temporary measures to assist affected families while they sought permanent intervention.
“Affected wards were: Ward 1, Ward 3, Ward 4, Ward 5, Ward 9, Ward 10 and Ward 11. Affected individuals have moved to their relatives and neighbours,” explained Mtolo. He added that community halls have been made available as vacation shelters. He appreciated the support provided by various departments, organisations, disaster teams and businesses during this difficult time.
KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) said storms also caused damage in the Umgungundlovu district, affecting households.
Local farmers reported losses and confirmed that their livestock was killed by lightning.
“Our thoughts are with the families affected by these incidents. Through the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC), we are ensuring that families receive support. We are providing relief and counselling to affected households,” said KZN MEC for Cogta, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi.
