The Msunduzi Municipality wishes to provide an update following the Orange Leval 5 weather warning several E parts of the City, which brought strong disruptive winds to several parts of the City.
A total of 16 wards have been affected, with the most severe damage reported in the Vulindlela area where homes sustained significant structural damage. Municipal teams, in partnership with disaster management and emergency services, are currently conducting damage assessments to determine the extent, magnitude, and needs across all affected areas.
The storm caused widespread power outages as strong winds uprooted trees and brought down power lines. The City's electricity infrastructure has been severely impacted, resulting in major faults and blackouts affecting the following areas:
• Hillon, Hiton Gardens parts of Sweetwaters and surrounding areas
• Bishopstowe and surrounding areas
• Old Howick Road and surrounding routes including Olympia. Deccan, Nerena, Cora and Swapo
• Copesville, Haniville and surrounds
• Blackridge, Wembley, Clarendon, Boughton. Mpumuza and neighbouring communities.
Municipal teams are working around the clock to clear debris, remove fallen trees, and restore power supply. In many cases, trees have fallen directly on power lines, making it necessary to safely remove them betore repairs can proceed. We understand the frustration caused by prolonged outages and appeal to the public for patience and understanding during his challenging time. Our emergency response teams are on the ground providing relief to those affected, while law enforcement agencies are assisting with traffic management and ensuring public safety during tree removals and repair works. Mop-up operations have already commenced in areas where assessments have been completed.
The safety of our residents remains our top priority. We assure the public that our Disaster Management Unit is compiling a full report to support a coordinated government response and to inform recovery efforts.
Further updates will be issued as the situation develops. We kindly request for your patience and understanding during this time.
