eThekwini Municipality Reopens Beaches, but Devastating Floods and Tornado Strike Overnight
Just as holidaymakers received the promising news of the reopening of Umhlanga Main and Bronze beaches, signaling improvements in water quality, eThekwini Municipality was hit by a series of calamities. Deadly flash floods and a tornado struck the city, leaving emergency responders tirelessly working throughout the night on June 27. The destructive forces of heavy winds and rain impacted not only the wider eThekwini Municipality and Durban suburbs but also smaller towns along the KwaZulu Natal South Coast, stretching as far as Umkomaas, Scottburgh, Park Rynie, and Port Shepstone in Ugu Municipality.
The torrential downpour led to significant flooding, affecting major roads such as the M19, M13, M7, and the southern freeway M4. Other roads in the city suffered damage or experienced mudslides, causing widespread disruption. A widely shared video on social media showcased the flooded Selborne Golf Course, where a powerful river surged across the greens. Additionally, the Umkomaas Bridge on the R102, already weakened by the devastating floods of April 2022 that claimed numerous lives, suffered further collapse.
Picture: Tumi Pakkies/ African News Agency (ANA)
The impact on residential areas was severe, with many homes experiencing extensive damage. Community halls were swiftly opened to provide shelter for those in need. Tragically, at least two individuals lost their lives during the flood, while six others sustained injuries as informal dwellings were washed away in Cato Crest, according to Robert McKenzie, spokesperson for Emergency Medical Services.
These unexpected events serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and devastating power of nature. The municipality, alongside emergency response teams, is working diligently to provide aid and support to affected areas, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.