Search Resumes for Five Missing After Torrential Rains in KZN

Five people, including three children, are missing and feared to have been washed away in a canal in KwaZulu-Natal following heavy rains that battered the province. The incident occurred on Tuesday night in Lamontville, near Umlazi, south of Durban.

Emergency services were deployed to the area early Wednesday morning, but hazardous conditions forced them to temporarily suspend the search. Garrith Jamieson, spokesperson for ALS Paramedics, confirmed that the operation had to be halted due to dangerous terrain and poor visibility.

“Torrential rain and flooding that took place last night has left a trail of destruction. Five people are believed to have been washed into the canal,” he said.

Rescue teams, including paramedics, Durban Metro Police, the eThekwini Fire Department, and search and rescue units, scoured the area before deciding to call off efforts until daylight.

The tragedy comes as KwaZulu-Natal continues to experience severe weather conditions. Last week, devastating mudslides and structural collapses claimed six lives and caused widespread damage. Among the victims were two parents who became trapped in their home as heavy rains triggered flooding.

The eThekwini Municipality’s disaster management teams have been responding to multiple incidents across the region as emergency services work to prevent further casualties.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued multiple warnings for severe weather across the country, including threats of flooding, damaging winds, and fire risks.

KZN remains on high alert, with heavy rain expected to continue along the coast and surrounding areas. SAWS has warned of potential flooding in both formal and informal settlements, damage to infrastructure, and dangerous road conditions.

In addition, a yellow level 1 warning has been issued for strong winds along the Western Cape coastline, from Table Bay to Plettenberg Bay, and along the northern coast of KZN.

Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to take precautionary measures and avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding. The search for the five missing individuals is expected to resume at first light as rescue teams battle against time to locate them.

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com

Soweto Residents Face Devastating Flooding Due to Blocked Stormwater Drains