KZN disaster management teams continue mop up operations in Newcastle, following floods on Sunday.
Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, MEC of Cooperative Governance in KZN, said teams remain on high alert, due to a severer warning against thunderstorms, Level 4.
Several key roads in the Newcastle CBD, including Ayliff Street, Kirkland Street, Scott & Bird Street, Patterson & Allen Street, and Allen Street near KFC, were temporarily closed due to storm damage, on Monday, but were reopened.
Initial assessments of damage point to government offices, homes, vehicles, and an old-age home as some of the worst affected by Sunday’s storm.
Buthelezi said “we are grateful for the swift action taken by our Disaster Management teams in Newcastle. Their dedication has ensured that affected communities receive timely support. I appeal to all residents, particularly those in low-lying and flood-prone areas, to exercise caution. Seek shelter on higher ground and avoid crossing flooded roads or bridges. Public safety remains our utmost priority.”
Residents are urged to avoid crossing rivers or flooded roads, remain indoors and away from windows during thunderstorms and not to take cover under trees metal structures during thunderstorms.
Affected areas are Amajuba District’s Newcastle, Dannhauser, eMadlangeni, uThukela District’s Alfred Duma, Inkosi Langalibalele, Okhahlamba,Harry Gwala District- Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Greater Kokstad, uMzimkhulu, uMgungundlovu District’s- Msunduzi, uMngeni, Mpofana, uMshwathi, iMpendle, Umzinyathi District’s-uMvoti, uMsinga, Nquthu, Zululand District’s Abaqulusi, eDumbe, eNdumeni, Ulundi, Nongoma , as well as Nkandla and uMuziwabantu.
Joburg’s Robert Mulaudzi, Emergency Services Spokesperson, said roads are wet and slippery and therefore require motorists to exercise caution while driving.
He also said EMS is monitoring all 7 regions for any emergencies.
The Weather Service (SAWS) has warned against thunderstorms at level 2 in Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo.
Picture: Supplied