CAPE TOWN: The city of Durban in South Africa has been devastated by heavy rainfall and flooding, resulting in the tragic loss of seven lives and leaving seven more people missing. The wild weather has caused destruction and displacement, with around 70 houses destroyed, over 100 damaged, and more than 150 people left homeless, according to local government authorities.
The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government reported that six fatalities occurred in Durban, while one person lost their life in Port Shepstone, a coastal town located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) to the south of Durban. Rescue teams are actively searching for the missing individuals, hoping to find them amidst the challenging conditions.
Rains and Strong Winds Wreak Havoc Along South Africa’s East Coast
In response to the calamity, affected residents have sought refuge in schools and other buildings to escape the floods. The relentless heavy rains and strong winds have wreaked havoc along South Africa’s east coast. In a particularly alarming incident, a “landspout” tornado struck an area on the outskirts of Durban, with wind speeds reaching over 100 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour), as reported by the South African Weather Service.
The situation remains critical as rescue crews continue their efforts to locate the missing individuals and provide assistance to those affected by the floods. The local authorities are closely monitoring the situation and implementing measures to mitigate further damage and support the affected communities.
