'The entire area went black': Tongaat marks two years since devastating tornado
Tongaat Civic Association says while significant rebuilding has taken place, including the repair of dozens of homes, many survivors continue to live with the emotional trauma of the event.
Two years after a tornado tore through Tongaat and surrounds, the devastation remains hard to forget for many.
The day disaster struck
On this day in 2024 the twister carved a path of destruction, destroying homes, schools and other infrastructure in the area north of Durban.
It was also pelted by hail, along with parts of Umhlanga, including La Lucia.
Twelve people were killed in Togaat, including a two-year-old child.
Nearly 3,000 residents were left without a roof over their heads.
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President of the Tongaat Civic Association, Harold Maistry, says he vividly remembers the day.
"It must have been around half past four. We heard this rumbling sound, and I looked out the window. The entire area went black.
"From the ground that went into the cloud, the entire area went dark and then after that it was bright again. We rushed towards the scene, and we were met with devastation. Then we learnt it was a tornado," explains Maistry.
Rebuilding lives and homes
He says that in the aftermath of the disaster, community organisations, businesses, and volunteers rallied together to provide emergency relief, including food, drinking water, clothing, blankets, and shelter for affected families.
Maistry says around 65 homes have been repaired to date.
He says while much of the physical damage has been repaired, the emotional trauma is still there.
"We faced the wrath of nature, but the community is resilient. We are rising; we'll have to live through this trauma. I know to date, when I speak to children, especially when they hear thunder and a rumble, they freeze.
"They will forever remember this, and we will always cherish those that we lost."
Maistry says the association has continued to provide psychosocial support through a multidisciplinary team, particularly for children and families still affected by the tragedy.
Memorial services, prayer meetings and night vigils will be held to honour those who lost their lives.
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