Christmas Day tragedy: Six killed in KZN flash floods

Tragedy struck on Christmas Day when six people were killed after a flash flood in Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal swept them away.

CHRISTMAS DAY TRAGEDY: SIX KILLED IN KZN FLASH FLOODS

The search for ten other people has resumed on Tuesday morning.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Flooding, road closures and damages due to WEATHER

“After a full day of search and rescue operations conducted by our disaster management teams, together with SAPS K9, Al-Imdaad Foundation Disaster Response, and IPSS Medical Rescue, the death toll now stands at six people, and the search for the remaining ten people will resume on Tuesday morning.”

the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (KZN COGTA) said.

THIS RESULTED IN SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE INFRASTRUCTURE

According to the KZN COGTA, the heavy rains on Christmas Eve resulted in the Bellspuit River, which runs under the Mbonontathu bridge, bursting its banks, causing water to overflow onto the N11 road near the Limit Hill robots in Ladysmith Town.

THE SEARCH FOR THE MISSING PEOPLE RESUMED THIS MORNING

“This resulted in severe damage to infrastructure, and several vehicles were swept away. Additionally, one household located near a Caravan Park was completely destroyed.

“Sadly, three family members were swept away. During the search and rescue operation, one family member was found deceased, while the other two are still missing.”

Furthermore, it said several vehicles were also swept away.

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PLEASE SEND US YOUR WEATHER PHOTOS AND VIDEOS:

Please WhatsApp your photos and videos to  060 011 0211. Please remember to include your name, surname, and as many details and information as you have. You are, of course, welcome to send anonymous tips and information.

SEVERAL VEHICLES WERE ALSO SWEPT AWAY

“At the time of the incident, three vehicles were said to have been traveling on the N11 and were swept away. According to information gathered by our disaster teams, a double cab was carrying nine passengers. Three of them were found deceased inside the vehicle, while the other six remain missing.

“A light vehicle – Polo, was carrying two passengers; one person was discovered deceased inside the vehicle, while the other person remains missing.

“A light bakkie – Bantam was carrying two people who were also swept away. One person was found in the vehicle deceased and the other was still missing.”

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THE DEATH TOLL ON TUESDAY WAS SIX PEOPLE

Those in need have been provided with disaster relief, including hygiene packs, mattresses, and blankets.

“Thunderstorms are expected to persist in various areas of KwaZulu-Natal, including Ladysmith. According to the South African Weather Service, a level 2 alert has been issued. We urge residents to exercise extreme caution during this time.”

KZN COGTA said.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Homes flooded and vehicles damaged in KZN flash floods