One killed as storms wreak havoc in Pietermaritzburg, KZN Midlands
Torrential rains and strong winds cause widespread damage and flooding
Emergency services battling to reach those affected
One person has been killed and several others injured as severe storms wreaked havoc in Pietermaritzburg and the KZN Midlands on Monday.
The storm, which brought torrential rains and strong winds, caused widespread damage to homes, businesses and infrastructure.
Emergency services are battling to reach those affected by the storm, as many roads have been blocked by fallen trees and debris.
The South African Weather Service has issued a warning for further heavy rains and thunderstorms in the area.
Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
The storm is the latest in a series of severe weather events to hit South Africa in recent weeks.
Earlier this month, a tornado killed at least three people and injured dozens more in the Eastern Cape.
The severe weather is being blamed on the La Niña weather pattern, which is bringing cooler than average sea temperatures to the Pacific Ocean.
La Niña is known to cause more frequent and intense storms in Southern Africa.
The South African government has declared a national state of disaster in response to the severe weather.
The declaration will allow the government to provide emergency assistance to those affected by the storms.
Here are some tips to stay safe during a storm:
- Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
- If you must go outside, wear a raincoat and boots.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch for fallen trees and debris.
- If you see a power line down, stay away from it and call the emergency services.
- If you are caught in a flood, try to get to higher ground.
