Severe winds cause destruction across KwaZulu-Natal

Fierce winds reaching speeds of up to 110 km/h have caused widespread destruction across Durban and various parts of KwaZulu-Natal, leaving a trail of damaged infrastructure, road closures, and injuries in their wake.

In Brindhaven, Verulam, a delivery biker was seriously injured after a light pole collapsed onto his head while he was riding along Rosemary Drive at around 10:10 am on Monday.

Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) responded to the distress call and treated the man for head and shoulder injuries on the scene before transporting him to a medical facility.

By mid-morning, RUSA’s operations centre had been inundated with calls from residents and businesses across the Ethekwini District, reporting structural damage caused by relentless gusts of wind.

Residential areas and central business districts bore the brunt of the storm, with multiple injuries confirmed and properties severely affected.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) had issued warnings for damaging winds, and as the situation escalated, disaster management teams were deployed throughout the province to address emergencies caused by a cut-off low-pressure system.

The system has brought strong winds, heavy rainfall, and snow, creating hazardous conditions from coastal cities to the interior mountains.

In parts of Harry Gwala, uThukela, and Ugu Districts, heavy snowfall has forced the closure of the N2 between Ingeli and Kokstad, with authorities advising motorists to steer clear of affected routes. The N3 has also experienced disruptions due to uprooted trees blocking traffic.

Municipal teams have been dispatched to clear debris, restore access to roads, and repair downed power lines that have left several communities without electricity.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, urged the public to “exercise extreme caution,” especially on the roads, and advised parents to ensure school children use safe routes.

KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC Mbali Shinga has confirmed that the Gamalakhe Local Service Office sustained storm-related damage, prompting the temporary closure of all department offices in the Ugu District.

MEC Shinga expressed concern for both staff and residents, emphasising that safety is the department’s top priority.

"Given the severity of the weather, residents should delay non-essential travel and stay informed through updates from local authorities," said Shinga.

An assessment will be conducted to determine the full extent of the damage, including the potential loss of important documents.