Filipino seafarer rescued from bulk carrier off Durban after medical emergency

Emergency responders in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, are actively managing an influx of rain that has caused mudslides and flooding across the municipality. The provincial government has issued flood warnings for low-lying areas, prompting authorities to open waterway mouths in an attempt to alleviate the flooding. However, several rivers continue to rise.

In Mariannhill, a yellow level two warning remains in effect due to widespread showers and thunderstorms anticipated for Friday. Motorists are cautioned to keep headlights on, reduce speed, and avoid driving across flooded roads or low-lying bridges. The most significant mudslides occurred in Tshelimnyama, resulting in the collapse of three houses and affecting at least 14 residents.

Emergency responders swiftly secured and cleared the affected area, with teams conducting assessments and providing humanitarian support to the affected families. The Isipingo estuary mouth has been opened to release accumulated water, but residents living on steep inclines are urged to remain vigilant, as saturated ground conditions increase the risk of further mudslides and localized flooding.

The municipality is preparing a facility at Montclair Lodge to house disaster victims, but flooding has damaged a relief center in Melody Hills. The province's Minister of Transport and Human Settlements, Ndabezinhle Sibiya, warns informal dwellers in river banks to exercise caution due to soil erosion and potential risks to informal settlements in Quarry Heights Road. The ongoing bridge work in the area has also been impacted.

Sibiya emphasizes that roving teams are working alongside other government departments to expedite interventions and prevent potential loss of lives. Further updates will be shared around 1:30 pm on Friday.