WATCH: Aftermath of severe thunderstorm in Zululand region

City of uMhlathuze residents are picking up the pieces after the severe thunderstorm that tore through Empangeni and surrounding areas on Monday afternoon, leaving a trail of damage.

One person was reportedly killed and others were injured at 5Five Ways Mall and Umhlanga reserve outside Ngwelezana, as the storm, which was accompanied by strong winds and hail, hit the region.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Supercell thunderstorm responsible for Empangeni severe weather

A number of people are displaced as homes have been severely damaged.

uMhlathuze communications manager Bongani Gina confirmed that municipal buildings such as the civic centre and fire station in eMpangeni; Richards Bay Airport, and many private businesses and hospitals have suffered extensive damage.

Some roads have been blocked by fallen trees and debris while some areas are without electricity as a result of power lines that have fallen.

“We have areas such as eSigisi, eMacekane, eNseleni, eMhlanga that have been affected where roofs were blown away, and reports are still coming in,” said Gina.

“We have no one in our halls at present, but those whose houses were affected opted seeking shelter from their neighbours.”

The city’s disaster management team and councillors are this (Tuesday) morning conducting assessments to determine the extent of damage in various parts.

HAVE YOUR SAY