uMshwathi Municipality confirms that heavy rains experienced yesterday at approximately 17:00 have resulted in severe flooding in the New Hanover area in ward 2.
The Municipality can report that three (3) people were initially declared missing. As of today, one (1) of the missing individuals has been found, while search efforts for the remaining two continue.
The floods have caused significant damage to infrastructure. Several houses were washed away, and key access routes have been severely affected ,including the bridge connecting Wartburg and New Hanover, which has been extensively damaged.
The Municipality has activated its disaster management response. Arrangements have been made to support residents who have been left displaced. Community halls and a local school have been prepared to provide temporary shelter, food, and other essential relief services.
The leadership of the Province, led by MEC Siboniso Duma, is working closely with the leadership of uMshwathi Municipality under Mayor, Cllr Mandla Zondi.
Rescue teams, disaster management officials, and other emergency personnel are currently on the ground, continuing with search, rescue, and relief operations.
uMshwathi Municipality extends its thoughts and prayers to all affected families and appeals to residents to exercise extreme caution during this period of adverse weather.
