STORM DAMAGE: Narrow escape for child (7) as wall collapses
Motorists are urged to be extra careful when driving due to the heavy rain, mudslides and localised flooding.
Flooding at JTV Centre, Umtentweni.
A seven-year-old child has been taken to hospital after a wall collapsed this morning during a mudslide at a homestead in Bhomela.
The mudslide at a home in Bhomela.
The child was trapped under the debris of the house, and was lucky to get out alive.
This comes as the South Coast has been hit by a massive storm which started last night (Monday).
It has continued into the morning and while it has abated slightly (at around 9am) rain is still falling hard.
The heavy rain and thunderstorms overnight have caused flooding in most places, making the coastal roads dangerous to drive on.
There are reports of fallen trees, debris scattered on the road, power outages, accidents and flooded roads, houses and even a school building.
Marine Drive in Umtentweni flooded near Third Avenue. Photo by Mike Davies.
The South African Weather Service has released a level five warning for disruptive rain expected along the Wild Coast and adjacent interior resulting in flooding and settlements as well as traffic disruptions.
Flooding in Sea Park.
S’fiso Ngcaku, head of Ray Nkonyeni Law Enforcement sent out a message reporting that all low level bridges are currently overflowing making them unsafe.
“Kindly use alternative route as to avoid incidents. Some of our intersections are without power and traffic lights are not working. In this case, we are unable to deploy personnel to man them. Please reduce speed as all our roads are heavily affected.”
For emergencies contact:
Ugu Disaster Management and fire service: 039 682 2414