Severe Storms Force Closure of Northern KZN Beaches Amid Rising Death Toll

The serene coastline of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is facing an unprecedented crisis following a series of severe thunderstorms that have wreaked havoc across the province. In a precautionary response, the eThekwini Municipality has announced the closure of all beaches in the north of KZN, with Umgababa beach being the only exception in the southern region that remains open to the public.

This decision has been taken after the storms, characterized by vigorous winds and heavy rainfall, have led to significant damage and contamination. The impact on the beach water quality has been substantial, with debris such as logs being carried by stormwater into rivers and the ocean, posing safety hazards for swimmers and marine life.

The eThekwini Municipality has released a statement emphasizing that the principal beaches in the central regions are still operable, assuring that these have been deemed safe for swimming and other aqua-related activities. Beachgoers are urged to comply with the restrictions on water sports and activities on the closed beaches, although they may still utilize the sand and surrounding areas for non-water-based enjoyment.

In the midst of dealing with the wreckage left by the natural disaster, the province's death toll has tragically climbed to 52 individuals. The KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) disclosed that the casualties are particularly concentrated within the eThekwini Metro and neighboring municipalities such as KwaDukuza and Ndwedwe.

Among the tragic stories emerging from the storms, the Folweni area recorded the collapse of a retaining wall that led to the loss of two lives. Another casualty was reported in Umlazi, with structural failure during the violent weather. Meanwhile, in Tongaat, a community mourns the loss of two family members due to their housing structure yielding to the tempest’s force.

KZN's Cogta is spearheading the relief efforts in coordination with disaster response teams, all affected municipalities, and societal partners. As part of emergency measures, water tankers have been dispatched to supplement regions facing water scarcity as residents embark on recovery operations. The electrical infrastructure has also been impacted, causing blackouts in certain communities.

The province is now contending with damaged roads and bridges, with some areas experiencing a complete cessation of access, severing critical links between residents and essential services. According to preliminary reports, eThekwini Metro is currently assessing over 250 households and 1,000 individuals in light of the destruction and displacements.

As KZN embarks on the path to healing and restoration, authorities are urging residents and visitors to stay alert and heed safety advisories. The eThekwini Municipality remains committed to updating the public and mitigation strategies while extending apologies for the disruptions caused.