Durban Flooding Causes Chaos as Roads Become Impassable
Durban is grappling with widespread flooding after heavy rains battered the Upper Highway area, leaving many roads submerged and vehicles washed away. Residents in Pinetown, Hillcrest, and Kloof have been urged to avoid non-essential travel as emergency teams struggle to rescue those trapped in rising waters.
The flooding follows intense rainfall that began on Thursday afternoon, overwhelming drainage systems and turning streets into rivers. ALS Paramedics reported that two vehicles were swept away on Stapleton Road in Pinetown. While these reports are still being confirmed, emergency teams are at the scene searching for the cars.
Authorities have warned that the heavy rains will continue throughout the weekend. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Level 6 warning for severe weather, highlighting the risk of more floods and infrastructure damage.
Severe Flooding in Upper Highway Area
Emergency responders have been deployed across Durban to manage the flood crisis, with several areas reported to be impassable. Metro police confirmed that major roads such as the M19 Westbound under the N2 bridge are submerged, leaving multiple vehicles stranded.
Motorists trying to navigate flooded roads have faced severe difficulties. At Wandsbeck Road before Westwood Mall, the N2 highway has been affected, with only one lane open to traffic. In Kloof, Patrick Duncan Road has been completely shut down due to excessive water levels, preventing residents from accessing key routes.
Community policing forums have been actively updating residents on social media. A notice from the Kloof Community Policing Forum stated that multiple cars were stuck up to window height, with fallen trees further complicating rescue efforts. Some roads have been blocked off with danger tape to warn motorists of hazardous conditions.
Vehicles Swept Away as Water Levels Rise
In Pinetown, emergency teams rushed to Stapleton Road after reports that two vehicles had been swept away by strong currents. The road runs next to a river that overflowed due to heavy rains, creating a fast-moving water channel that swallowed parts of the roadway.
Rescue operations have been challenging as water levels continue to rise. ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson stated that teams are using specialized equipment to locate the missing vehicles. While no official confirmation has been made regarding casualties, authorities are urging caution.
Eyewitnesses described dramatic scenes of stranded motorists abandoning their cars as floodwaters surged through streets. The sheer force of the water has left many vehicles submerged or washed into ditches. Officials warn that similar incidents could occur if the rains persist.
Durban Metro Police Issue Travel Warnings
The Durban Metro Police have issued strong advisories for residents to avoid non-essential travel. Several major roads remain waterlogged, increasing the risk of vehicles being stranded. The M19 highway, a critical route for commuters, has become impassable under the N2 bridge.
The flooding has also affected Kloof Village Mall, which reportedly experienced severe water damage. Businesses in the area are struggling to protect their premises as rising waters threaten their stores. Officials are urging shop owners to take necessary precautions to avoid losses.
To ensure public safety, authorities have deployed officers to redirect traffic away from affected areas. Emergency responders continue to monitor the situation, providing real-time updates as conditions change.
Impact on Communities and Emergency Response Efforts
The floods have caused widespread disruptions across the Durban region. Many informal settlements, which are often hardest hit by heavy rains, have miraculously escaped the worst of the damage this time. However, power outages have affected several communities, leaving residents without electricity.
Emergency teams have been working tirelessly to assist stranded individuals. In one tragic incident, a woman in Pinetown lost her life after her vehicle was swept off a flooded bridge. Ten other people were rescued from submerged cars, highlighting the dangers of attempting to cross waterlogged roads.
Local officials continue to assess the damage caused by the floods, with plans to deploy additional rescue teams if conditions worsen. The South African Weather Service has reiterated its warning, urging all residents to remain vigilant.
Weather Forecast: More Rain Expected
The wet weather in Durban is expected to continue throughout the weekend, with forecasters predicting more heavy rainfall. The Level 6 weather alert remains in place until midnight on Friday, covering multiple municipalities including eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Mkhambathini, Ndwedwe, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni, uMuziwabantu, and Umzumbe.
Residents have been urged to take all necessary precautions, including securing their homes, avoiding flooded roads, and staying indoors if possible. Authorities are emphasizing the importance of staying updated on weather alerts to prevent further casualties.
The ongoing downpours are testing the city’s infrastructure, with drainage systems overwhelmed by the volume of water. Officials are considering additional flood mitigation measures, including reinforcing stormwater drains and deploying more emergency response teams.
Authorities Urge Caution Amid Disaster Response
City officials and disaster management teams are urging residents of Durban to remain cautious as the extreme weather continues. Teams are actively clearing debris, assisting with evacuations, and providing aid to those affected by the flooding.
Public safety officials are also warning against attempting to cross fast-moving waters, as many underestimate the strength of flood currents. Motorists are advised to turn back if they encounter flooded roads rather than risk being swept away.
In response to the crisis, relief organizations are mobilizing resources to help those impacted. Humanitarian groups are working alongside government agencies to provide emergency shelter, food, and medical assistance to affected families.
The flooding in Durban has created chaos, leaving roads impassable, vehicles stranded, and communities in distress. With emergency responders working around the clock, residents are urged to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel.
As heavy rains continue, authorities are warning of further risks, including additional flooding and infrastructure damage. The Level 6 weather warning remains in effect, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Residents are encouraged to follow official updates, take safety precautions, and report any emergencies to local authorities. The coming days will be crucial in managing the disaster and preventing further tragedies.
