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Rain, winds wreak havoc across KZN as province braces for more downpours and thunderstorms
Rain, winds wreak havoc across KZN as province braces for more downpours and thunderstorms
Intense rainfall and gale-force winds have swept across KwaZulu-Natal, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
The inclement weather, which began on Monday, has caused widespread flooding, uprooted trees, and damaged homes and businesses. Several roads have been closed due to flooding, and emergency services are working around the clock to respond to calls for assistance.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a warning for more heavy rain and thunderstorms in the coming days, as a tropical disturbance in the Mozambique Channel moves towards the province.
The SAWS has urged residents to be cautious and to take precautions to stay safe during the severe weather. People living in low-lying areas have been advised to evacuate if necessary, and motorists have been warned to avoid flooded roads.
The provincial government has declared a state of disaster in response to the widespread damage caused by the storms.
This declaration will allow the government to access additional resources to assist with the relief and recovery efforts. The provincial government has also set up a disaster management centre to coordinate the response to the storm damage.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has been involved in several rescue operations in the province, including rescuing a family from a flooded house in Durban.
The NSRI has urged people to stay out of flooded areas and to call for help if they are in danger. The organization has also issued a warning for dangerous sea conditions along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline.
The severe weather has also caused power outages in some areas of the province.
Eskom has dispatched crews to restore power to affected areas as quickly as possible. In the meantime, residents are urged to conserve electricity and to use generators only in well-ventilated areas.
The South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) is providing assistance to victims of the storm damage.
The SARCS has set up shelters for displaced people and is providing food, water, and other essential items. The organization is also working with other aid organizations to provide long-term support to those affected by the storms.
The severe weather in KwaZulu-Natal is a reminder of the importance of being prepared for natural disasters.
Residents should have an emergency plan in place and should be aware of the risks associated with severe weather in their area. The SAWS website provides detailed information on weather forecasts and warnings, and the NSRI website provides information on water safety and rescue operations.