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Picture courtsey: (The Citizen)Tornado leaves a trail of homes reduced to rubble in OThongathi, KZN.
(The Post News)- Several residents in oThongathi in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) have been left reeling and homeless after a tornado tore through their community, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
A tornado struck oThongathi on Monday, June 3, causing widespread damage and displacement in several
areas in north of Durban.
The storm, heavy rains, strong winds, and flash flooding, displaced residents destroying structural and road infrastructure leaving the area to be inaccessible as a result of fallen trees and exposed power lines.
“In some areas, the flooding is so severe that we’re using boats to rescue people,” said Emergence Management spokesperson, Sipho Mbatha.
Othongathi, a small town in the iLembe district of KZN, was hit hardest by the tornado.
The areas of Verulam, Phoenix, and Tongaat were also affected by the tornado
The tornado struck at approximately 15:00 on Monday.
Emergency services have been working tirelessly to rescue those trapped and provide aid to those in need.
Residents have also come together to support each other, sharing resources and offering shelter.
The fierce storms has since claimed the lives of five people.
The KwaZulu-Natal Government has moved into action, assessing the damage and providing aid to those affected.
Homes and buildings lie in ruins, power lines are down, and many are without electricity.
Those left homeless are finding shelter in public facilities, while emergency services remain on high alert as the severe weather warnings continue.
“We’re doing everything possible to assist those affected, We are working around the clock to ensure everyone receives the help they need,” said Colonel Sibusiso Mdlovu, KZN Emergency Services spokesperson.
“The tornado was like nothing I’ve ever seen before, But we’re coming together as a community to rebuild and support each other,” said resident, Nokuthula Mbatha.
Weather experts warn that more severe weather is possible in the coming days, but the community remains hopeful.
“We’re monitoring the situation closely,” said SABC weather forecaster, Mbali Mbatha.
“We’ll keep the public informed to ensure their safety.”
Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has pledged support for those affected. “We will work tirelessly to rebuild and restore our communities,” she said.
Rescue efforts are being hindered by closed roads.
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