Search and rescue teams have recovered the body of a woman who was swept away during severe flooding in New Hanover, KwaZulu-Natal. The discovery was made on Monday morning in Ward 2 of the uMshwathi Local Municipality, where three people were reported missing after heavy rains battered the area on Sunday night.
KZN Cooperative Governance spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila confirmed that the remains belong to a middle-aged woman. Her body was found in a river near the Shiyabazali community, one of the worst-hit areas where homes and roads were severely damaged. Footage shared on social media shows powerful torrents surging through properties as the storm intensified.
MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, provided an update on the province’s disaster response efforts, expressing regret over the loss of life.
“MEC Buthelezi confirms that search and rescue teams have recovered the body of one of the three individuals who were swept away by floodwaters in the New Hanover area,” Mzila said.
Disaster teams remain on the ground as the search continues for the remaining two missing people.
KZN Transport spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya said several affected residents were provided with temporary shelter overnight, but many believed to be foreign nationals left the accommodation site.
“Alternative accommodation was provided, but most of the affected victims, who are believed to be foreign nationals, disappeared,” Sibiya said. “The MEC emphasised that assistance will still be given to all affected residents, and he will spend the day in the area supporting the community.”
Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious as recovery operations continue in flood-stricken parts of the Midlands.