ULUNDI, 09 FEBRUARY 2026 – The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has deployed provincial disaster management teams to the Harry Gwala and uMgungundlovu Districts following a weekend of destructive weather that has claimed a life and left dozens of families homeless.
The severe weather, which began on Friday, 06 February, and continued through Saturday, which saw gale-force winds and hailstorms sweep through the region, causing widespread damage to infrastructure and private property.
The storms have exacted a heavy human toll in the Harry Gwala District. In Mzimkhulu, a resident of Ward 15 was tragically struck and killed by lightning while at work on Friday. In a separate incident in Ward 12, three individuals sustained injuries from lightning strikes and are currently receiving medical attention. MEC Buthelezi has extended his condolences to the grieving family and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
Teams authorised by the MEC are currently on the ground conducting damage assessments and coordinating relief. The impact across the affected districts is as follows:
- uMgungundlovu District (Impendle Local Municipality): In Ward 5, 12 households—including 18 children and two senior citizens—were severely affected. Seven homes were completely destroyed, leaving four families destitute. COGTA, in collaboration with the Department of Social Development, has begun the urgent distribution of food parcels, blankets, and hygiene kits.
- Harry Gwala District: In addition to the casualties in Mzimkhulu, preliminary reports indicate that at least 11 homes across the district have been damaged by hail. A significant rockfall in Ward 1 has obstructed road access, which disaster teams are working to clear to ensure aid reaches remote areas.
“Our priority is the safety and dignity of those who have lost everything in these storms,” said MEC Buthelezi. “We are fast-tracking the provision of building materials and temporary shelter to ensure that no family is left exposed to the elements. We remain in a state of high alert.”
The Department warns residents in these areas that the ground remains dangerously saturated. This significantly increases the risk of secondary disasters, including further rockfalls and the collapse of compromised structures. Residents are urged to monitor weather updates and exercise extreme caution.
Issued by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, KwaZulu-Natal.
ENDS.
