Five bodies found after flash floods
The search continues for 11 missing individuals in the wake of the floods
This article has been updated:
According to a media statement released today (December 25), devastating flash floods in Ladysmith have claimed at least five lives, while 11 people remain missing after multiple cars were swept away by raging waters last night.
Preliminary reports indicate that, at around 23:00 on Christmas Eve, a riverbank along the Bellspruit collapsed, leading to severe flooding.
Provincial disaster management teams – together with the Al-Imdaad Foundation, IPSS Medical Rescue, as well as the K9 Unit – responded immediately and initiated search and rescue operations.
At this time, they have recovered five bodies, while 11 individuals remain unaccounted for. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing.
Furthermore, this disaster has caused damage to homes, flooding of roads, and has impacted on several businesses. Road infrastructure and vehicles have also suffered significant damage.
A media statement from the KZN MEC for the Department of Co-operative Governance & Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) reads, “It is with a heavy heart that, during a time when most families come together to celebrate Christmas Day, some families have tragically lost their loved ones. We extend our deepest condolences to all the families and friends affected by this devastating incident.
“Our disaster response teams and partners will continue their relentless efforts to locate and recover the missing individuals. We would like to express our sincere gratitude for the dedication of our disaster response teams and partners who have been working on the ground since the incident occurred. Immediate disaster relief has also been extended to all those affected.
Also read: Ladysmith floods after heavy rainfall
“The South African Weather Service has warned that more-than-normal rainfall is expected this summer; we therefore caution all residents to remain vigilant throughout the summer season and take heed of weather alerts that are issued from time to time.
“Our disaster response team will remain on high alert to respond to any eventuality.”
The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Ladysmith Gazette, a sold newspaper distributed in the Ladysmith area.
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