Tragedy Strikes as Wall Collapses
Durban experienced a devastating loss as six people lost their lives due to heavy rainfall that caused severe structural damage across the city. The incident occurred on Wednesday night, February 19, when a wall collapsed on sleeping residents, leading to fatalities in various areas, including Folweni, KwaMakhutha, Demat, and Ensimbini.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
eThekwini Municipality spokeswoman Gugu Sisilana confirmed that the extreme weather conditions resulted in widespread destruction, impacting both formal and informal housing structures. Emergency response teams, including disaster management officials, the fire department, and the South African Police Service, rushed to the affected locations to assist those trapped under the rubble.
Rescue operations continued throughout the night, with authorities working tirelessly to retrieve victims. Unfortunately, six people lost their lives in the tragedy. Among the deceased were a 45-year-old man from KwaMakhutha, a 13-year-old boy from Folweni, a 12-year-old girl from Demat, and a 13-year-old girl from Ensimbini.
Severe Weather and Flooding Impact
According to the Forecast Early Warning System, Amanzimtoti recorded 184mm of rainfall between midnight and 5 AM. The heavy downpour led to significant flooding, particularly in the southern parts of Durban. Authorities have warned residents to remain cautious as more adverse weather conditions are expected.
Safety Measures and Citywide Impact
In response to the disaster, the city has activated its Joint Disaster Management Operations Centre to coordinate rescue efforts and provide assistance to affected residents. Several beaches in the region have been temporarily closed as a safety precaution, while power outages have been reported in some areas. Efforts are currently underway to restore electricity and provide relief to those impacted.
Sisilana emphasized that the municipality, emergency services, and other relevant departments are working together to assess damages and implement safety measures. Rescue operations continue, with reported cases of entrapment still being addressed in the Adams Mission area.
Community Support and Awareness
Residents are urged to take extra precautions during extreme weather conditions and to report any structural damages or emergency situations to local authorities. The city remains on high alert as officials work to ensure the safety of all residents.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of natural disasters and the importance of disaster preparedness in vulnerable communities.