Devastating floods leave billions in damage!

THE devastating floods that struck the province of KZN have caused an estimated R3,1 billion in damages.

Following this disaster, the province has been declared a national state of disaster by the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC).

The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, welcomes the NDMC declaration of a national state of disaster for KZN after the inclement weather events from 16 to 28 February 2025.

KZN Department of Cogta spokesman Senzelwe Mzila said these devastating incidents caused an estimated R3.1 billion in damages.

"This declaration, promulgated in terms of Section 23(1)(b) of the Disaster Management Act, 2002, represents a critical intervention to ensure a cohesive and comprehensive response to the devastating consequences of recent heavy rains, thunderstorms, floods, and strong winds," he said.

According to Mzila, these events caused widespread destruction and resulted in the tragic loss of 22 lives across KZN.

"Furthermore, the incidents caused extensive damage to public infrastructure and private property, and severely disrupted essential services like water and electricity supply," he said.

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The declaration will facilitate the mobilisation of all state organs to augment support measures and implement contingency protocols, thus mitigating the disaster's impact within our communities.

He added that a multi-sectoral relief and rehabilitation plan would be implemented to ensure affected communities throughout KZN receive the necessary assistance for recovery.

"The department, through the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, will continue to coordinate the province's response in close collaboration with the NDMC," Mzila said.

MEC Buthelezi reassured the people of KZN that the department will work diligently with the NDMC, municipalities, and all pertinent stakeholders to ensure the efficient coordination of response and recovery efforts.

"Our unwavering commitment lies in providing support and assistance to all affected communities and in rebuilding robust and resilient infrastructure," said MEC Buthelezi.

He also advised residents across the province to remain vigilant and adhere to warnings issued by the South African Weather Service, as more rainfall is expected in the coming week.