KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC Sipho Hlomuka warned the public to be vigilant in the wake of the devastating floods.
Briefing the media in Howick where he held a meeting with the uMgungundlovu District’s newly elected mayors, he said the heavy rains can be deadly.
“Our appeal to our communities is to exercise caution, particularly during heavy rains, and avoid crossing flooded rivers or low-lying bridges as this poses a risk to their lives.
“We are very concerned about the images of young people swimming in flooded rivers. This is reckless and dangerous,” he said.
According to a report compiled by Cogta, the heavy rains have left a trail of destruction in the province.
“The inclement weather conditions have resulted in over 200 incidents, which include strong winds, lightning strikes, fires, and heavy rains.
“A total of 28 000 people from over 5 000 households have been affected.”
“It was also reported that there were 50 injuries and 653 homeless people. All the displaced were housed by their neighbours and friends,” Hlomuka said.
