KZN's adverse weather conditions leave 40 dead, scores displaced since December
The provincial disaster management team said the number encompasses people who have drowned, including victims of Ladysmith's flash floods and those who were struck by lightning.
An aerial view of the aftermath of the flooding in Ladysmith. Picture: Picture: IPSS Medical Rescue/Facebook
JOHANNESBURG - Since the start of the festive season, inclement weather in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has resulted in the deaths of 40 people across the province, with five others still unaccounted for.
The provincial disaster management team said the number encompasses people who have drowned, including victims of Ladysmith's flash floods and those who were struck by lightning.
It also confirmed that two other bodies were retrieved in Ladysmith, bringing the death toll in that area to 25.
READ: KZN govt concerned about persistent harsh weather conditions in the province
The KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has urged residents to be vigilant in the province, as heavy rains are expected to persist.
Spokesperson Nonala Ndlovu:
"The rains have also left 74 people injured. 47 people have been left homeless and are residing with relatives and neighbours as they are mostly from rural areas. A total of 814 households were affected."