State of disaster declared in KZN following devastating floods
At least 22 lives were lost; with widespread destruction, resulting in an estimated R3.1 billion in damages.
Severe rains have brought down walls and damaged property in and around Durban. Picture: Nhlanhla Mabaso/EWN.
JOHANNESBURG - KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has been declared a national state of disaster following the devastating impact of recent inclement weather.
The province experienced severe rainfall and flooding in February.
At least 22 lives were lost.
Widespread destruction resulted in an estimated R3.1 billion in damages.
The state of disaster declaration, made by the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), allows for the mobilisation of all state organs to support affected communities and implement contingency protocols.
A multi-sectoral relief and rehabilitation plan has been put in place to ensure that these communities receive the necessary assistance for recovery.
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) spokesperson, Senzelwe Mzila said MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has welcomed the declaration.
“The devastating incident caused an estimated R3.1 billion in damages. The MEC for COGTA has assured the people of KZN that the department will work diligently with the NDMC, municipalities and all pertinent stakeholders to ensure the efficient coordination of response and recovery efforts. Residents across the province are strongly advised to remain vigilant and adhere to weather warnings that are issued by the South African Weather Service.”
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