Four dead as floods and severe storms batter South Africa, KZN on high alert

As heavy rain continues to batter parts of South Africa, officials have confirmed that at least four people have died in flooding.

Deadly floods claim lives across multiple provinces as storms intensify

The National Disaster Management Centre says two bodies were recovered in the Northern Cape.

It follows the death of a 12-year-old in Taung in the North West on Sunday.

Authorities say the little girl had been playing outside during heavy rainfall.

In Gauteng, one person was crushed to death when a tree collapsed in an informal settlement in Germiston on Wednesday morning.

Ekurhuleni Emergency Services say the tree fell on several shacks. Two people were also injured.

Severe weather alerts issued across KZN as heavy rain and winds persist

A Yellow Level 4 alert for severe thunderstorms was issued for the KZN interior on Wednesday morning.

That has been upgraded to an Orange Level 6 warning in the north-eastern parts of the province.

Damaging winds can be expected over KZN's northern interior throughout the day.

A Yellow Level 2 warning is in place in those areas with a risk of runaway fires, falling trees, dust storms and disruption of routes.

Cooperative Governance Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa has reiterated his call for citizens to exercise heightened caution.

Disaster teams on high alert as heavy rainfall threatens widespread damage

Department spokesperson Pearl Maseko-Binqose says disaster management teams are closely monitoring the situation across the country.

"The Minister noted with concern that severe thunderstorms are expected across several provinces, with risks including heavy downpours, localised flooding, damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning.

“Rainfall accumulations of between 100mm and 200mm over a 24-hour period are anticipated in parts of the Western and Eastern Cape, which may result in widespread flooding and infrastructure damage. Coastal areas, particularly along the southern coastline, are also expected to experience very rough sea conditions and strong winds.

"The Minister emphasised the importance of preparedness and adherence to safety precautions. Members of the public are advised to avoid crossing flooded roads and swollen rivers, exercise extreme caution when travelling, and secure loose outdoor items that may be displaced by strong winds.”

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