Resilience in crisis, northern KZN unites against tropical storm

As tropical storm Filipo unleashed its fury upon the northern districts of KwaZulu-Natal, communities found themselves grappling with torrents of rain and relentless gusts of wind. Yet, amidst the chaos and destruction, a narrative of resilience and unity emerged, painting a portrait of a region unyielding in the face of adversity.

From Umhlabuyalingana to Jozini, Mbazwana and Manguzi, the impact of Filipo was felt far and wide. Low-lying bridges buckled under the force of raging waters; roads were destroyed and closed, and homes were flooded, forcing families to seek refuge with relatives and neighbours.

However, despite the challenges, no fatalities or injuries have been reported, a testament to the swift response and solidarity of the affected communities who banded together, offering support and shelter to those in need.

KZN Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, issued a stern yet compassionate plea to motorists, urging them to exercise caution and refrain from crossing swollen rivers and streams.

With disaster teams on the ground, tirelessly monitoring the situation, the emphasis on safety and cooperation remained paramount. Reports trickled in of flooded bridges, eroded roads, and overflowing rivers, underscoring the extent of Filipo’s impact.

As the storm begins to dissipate, the province braces itself for the next challenge. A cold front looms on the horizon and is accompanied by a high chance of further rainfall. Written by Gabrielle Matthew