Floods in Durban

People in KwaZulu-Natal have to cope with heavy rain and flooding in the province.

"During the night and into this morning rescue teams have been and are continuing to assist in flood-related incidents involving local citizens, domestic and farm animals and wildlife. The entire city is flooded, and we cannot get to everything," one said. Her spokesperson Mlungisi Mtshali said in the mean time, she is in touch with local authorities about the situation." eThekwini mayor Mxolisi Kaunda is briefing the media on flooding in Durban, caused by heavy rains over the last few days. Kaunda apologised to residents who had been left without help while "in need". Kaunda said that some cemeteries have been flooded and municipal staff had been dispatched to assess the damage. Four persons were lifted from the area and removed to safety," he said. It is one of the basic mandates of government to monitor weather services and the possible impact such can have on people. It has now become a yearly reality, that as South Africa enters the winter period, the people of Kwa-Zulu Natal are subjected to a tragic but predictable natural disaster in the form of floods. "This as torrential rains continue to cause wide-spread destruction and loss of life. "We are trying to access areas but most roads are closed," said Bilaal Jeewa from Gift of the Givers. Earlier, mayor Mxolisi Kaunda said they are working with NGOs to provide food and blankets for people seeking shelter at community halls across the city. Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, Hlomuka said he received a briefing from provincial disaster management structures in taking stock of the damage.