KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Premier Sihle Zikalala says the province has been declared a disaster area.
Several areas have been affected by inclement weather conditions that have claimed lives of at least 59 people.
Zikalala says disaster management teams are still assessing the damage caused..
“The first thing, we have declared the state of disaster. The second step, we are collecting all information to ensure interventions in all areas, that includes ensuring that all people have accommodation. Those who have had their houses destroyed. It also includes ensuring that people have food and clothes to wear as well as shelter,” says Zikalala.
KZN Floods I Premier Sihle Zikalala updates on the situation
Zikalala also condemned a looting incident that was reported in the south of Durban. It was alleged that some communities were looting containers that were washed away by floods.
Zikalala says, “Clearly there are those elements who take advantage when there are problems and would take advantage to do their own thing. The looting that took place in uMlazi areas we condemn it, in strongest terms…”
Police were part of those who were part of those trrying to save those affected by the storms.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is visiting flood-stricken parts of KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday to offer support to affected communities and assess the response of government and civil society to this critical situation.
Emergency Numbers #KZNFloods pic.twitter.com/JNhSnIz5N2
— Presidency | South Africa ?? (@PresidencyZA) April 13, 2022
President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived at the Pinetown Civic Centre ahead of his visit to flood affected areas in Durban.
He is welcomed by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikala and the minister of COGTA Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma #KZNFloods #DurbanFloods #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/vaDcTXJb32
— MaMthiyane (@skhangiwem) April 13, 2022
Motorists are urged to be extra careful near Tholeni River in Cweraland, in Mhlontlo Local Municipality after heavy floods have made the road inaccessible.
?️: @ortambodm#SABCNews pic.twitter.com/HoDAyZBGGK
— MorningLiveSABC (@MorningLiveSABC) April 13, 2022
[ON AIR] how is the National Sea Rescue Institute assisting with the KZN Floods? Craig Lambinon Spokesperson at National Sea Rescue Institute (@NSRI) on #SAfmSunrise with @StephenGrootes #KZNFloods #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/xnyTuwjPWn
— SAfmRadio ? (@SAfmRadio) April 13, 2022
