Death toll rises, mass evacuations ordered as heavy rains continue in KZN
Three people have died in eThekwini, after several homes collapsed in the Inanda area on Wednesday night during heavy rains.
Local government officials say one person was killed and five hurt in Matikwe when their house gave way.
In another incident, the body of a man, believed to be 34-years-old was found buried underneath rubble, after his home collapsed during a mudslide on Bhekuzulu Road. Three more adults from the same house sustained minor injuries.
READ: KZN man killed after landslide hits Ntuzuma home
Life Response Ambulance Services spokesperson, Leon Fourie says the area has been cordoned off due to fears of a further landslide as rains continue.
"There were two structures that collapsed in the mudslide. A third structure is being threatened. They [officials] have asked all the [people living in] houses - around approximately ten properties surrounding the collapse - that they have to evacuate."
"It was a very sad state to see people now being put out in this rain and have got nowhere to go. Local community leaders where there trying to find alternative accommodations these people," he said.
Disaster management teams also responded to two other home collapses in eTafuleni and Ngungumane where two people lost their lives.
PICS: Dam levels increase, KZN heavy rains cause road chaos
Cogta spokesperson, Senzo Mzila says in Umhlathuze the Umzingwenya River has burst its banks resulting in evacuations.
"There has also been incidents of flooding in the Amaoti, Stanger and Pongola. No loss of life or injuries were reported."
He has urged people to be cautious in this weather.
"The department is also urging residents to be cautious while the on-going weather is posing a serious risk, especially to those on the road. Travellers or whether it be pedestrians or motorists, the acting MEC is also appealing that is experiencing this weather to remain calm."
He says teams remain on the ground to monitor the situation.
