Heavy rains on 23 November triggered flash floods in New Hanover, uMshwathi, leaving one woman dead, two people missing, and around 100 residents displaced. Rescue operations continue amid damaged homes and infrastructure. Authorities are providing temporary shelter while urging caution against further rains.
The community of New Hanover in KwaZulu-Natal is grappling with the aftermath of devastating floods following heavy rains on Sunday, 23 November. One woman in her 40s was swept away and her body recovered on Monday, while search efforts persist for a man and a woman still missing. Rescue teams, aided by local residents, combed the riverbanks as families desperately salvaged scattered belongings.
Approximately 100 people, mostly from an informal settlement near a floodline, were displaced. Mud houses, rental properties, and structures built on riverbanks suffered the most damage, affecting tenants and foreign nationals. "People need shelters to sleep. Many houses have been destroyed by floods; some have lost their loved ones," said resident Nondumiso Ntuli.
Infrastructure took a severe hit, with several houses washed away and key routes impassable. The bridge linking Wartburg and New Hanover sustained extensive damage, complicating access for motorists. The uMshwathi municipality activated its disaster management response, preparing community halls and a local school as temporary shelters offering food and essentials.
Gift of the Givers remains on standby, as spokesperson Khulekani Kunene noted challenges in profiling victims due to documentation issues among foreigners. The Inkatha Freedom Party praised community solidarity but warned residents in low-lying areas to avoid flooded bridges and heed South African Weather Service alerts, especially with more rain forecast.
MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma highlighted complications from undocumented nationals fleeing verification, expressing concern over building in floodplains. The provincial department is collaborating with national counterparts to secure land for temporary housing. Spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya reiterated pleas against constructing in vulnerable areas: "Sadly, the informal settlements that were washed away were built in floodplains." Disaster teams stay vigilant province-wide.