In a tragic turn of events, severe thunderstorms in KwaZulu-Natal have left one person dead and three others injured, including an infant, as lightning struck a home in Umgungundlovu. The storm, which hit on November 5, 2024, left devastation in its wake, prompting a swift response from local authorities. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) confirmed the fatalities and injuries, detailing the violent strike of lightning that severely affected one family. The death of the unnamed individual and the injuries sustained by three others, including the child, have left the community reeling.
According to department spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila, the lightning strike occurred in the Mooi-Mpofana Local Municipality, with one family member tragically losing their life. The three injured individuals were rushed to hospital, where they are receiving treatment. COGTA MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has directed response teams to assist the affected family and ensure they have the support they need during this difficult time. The storms, which were accompanied by heavy rainfall, have wreaked havoc on the region, damaging homes, infrastructure, and causing widespread disruption.
This recent tragedy comes on the heels of severe thunderstorms and flooding that impacted several areas of KwaZulu-Natal just days earlier. On November 3, the Msunduzi Local Municipality suffered significant damage, with ten wards affected by the severe weather. A school and a hospital were among the buildings damaged, underscoring the widespread destruction caused by the storms. The South African Weather Service had issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for thunderstorms, cautioning the public of potential infrastructure damage and the risk to informal settlements, as well as the possibility of dangerous flooding and road closures.
The extent of the damage is still being assessed, but officials are working tirelessly to restore order and provide relief to those affected. Mzila noted that recovery efforts are ongoing, with local authorities prioritizing the repair of critical infrastructure and the safety of residents. As the province grapples with the aftermath of these violent storms, the community remains on high alert, with authorities urging residents to stay vigilant as more weather warnings are issued for the coming days.
