Severe storms that struck parts of KwaZulu-Natal on Sunday night have uprooted trees, damaged power lines and flooded roads, prompting ongoing mop-up operations in affected areas.
Authorities say response teams have been deployed across eThekwini and Pietermaritzburg to clear debris and restore normality as quickly as possible.
Provincial Cooperative Governance department spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila confirmed that no fatalities have been reported at this stage.
“No fatalities have been reported. A comprehensive update will be provided once technical assessments are concluded,” Mzila said.
In eThekwini, Disaster Management teams remain on the ground following heavy rainfall that caused widespread disruption. Several roads were submerged, while fallen trees and damaged vehicles were reported across multiple areas.
Durban Central and the southern region were among the hardest hit, with 22 incidents recorded, particularly in Chatsworth and Morningside. The western region reported 13 incidents, including in Westville, while seven incidents were recorded in the northern region, with Newlands West among those affected.
Municipal teams, including Disaster Management and Parks departments, have been deployed to clear debris, reopen roads and assess the extent of the damage.
Residents have been urged to exercise caution, avoid flooded roads and report hazards such as fallen trees, damaged power lines and blocked routes. Motorists have also been warned against attempting to cross flooded roads, as water levels may be deeper and more dangerous than they appear.
In Pietermaritzburg, a separate storm system caused significant damage in the city and surrounding areas, including Bishopstowe. Emergency services, including fire and private ambulance teams, responded to multiple incidents linked to strong winds and heavy rain.
Dozens of trees were brought down, blocking key routes and disrupting traffic. Midlands EMS reported that a vehicle at Scottsville Mall was crushed by a falling tree while occupants were inside; however, no injuries were sustained.
Major routes, including the N3 southbound off-ramp and Hesketh Drive, were also affected, causing delays before being cleared by response teams.
Authorities say operations are ongoing to restore access and minimise risks in affected communities.