WATCH: One dead, two missing in KZN floods

By Levy Masiteng 

A devastating flood has swept through New Hanover, just outside Pietermaritzburg, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming one life, with two other residents still missing. 

The death occurred on Sunday evening, when heavy rainfall caused floodwaters to engulf the area, affecting around 100 people who are reportedly mostly foreign nationals from Lesotho.

According to KZN MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, search and rescue teams recovered the body of a middle-aged woman, one of the three individuals swept away by the floodwaters. 

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss of life and extend our sincerest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased,” Buthelezi said.

The severe weather followed Level 4 and 5 alerts issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

Multiple residential properties were severely damaged or destroyed by the downpour, particularly in flood-prone informal settlements.

KZN COGTA