1 dead and 3 critically injured after lightning strike as KZN Midlands bear brunt of violent thunderstorms! A devastating lightning storm in Ward 5 of Mooi-Mpofana Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal, has resulted in the tragic death of one man and left three others critically injured.
The incident occurred around 2 p.m. in Townview, where 37-year-old Sifiso James Mkhize lost his life, and three of his relatives, including an infant, were hospitalized with severe injuries.
The storm was part of a larger weather event impacting multiple municipalities across the region, causing widespread damage.
Family Struck by Lightning in Their Home
The Mkhize family was inside their home when a powerful lightning strike hit, fatally injuring Sifiso Mkhize. The impact was severe enough to critically injure two adults and an infant, all of whom were quickly rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention.
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, expressed his condolences to the family, offering both support and hope for the speedy recovery of those injured.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the Mkhize family during this unimaginable time. We are directing disaster response teams to assist them as they recover from this tragedy,” Buthelezi stated.
He added that local emergency and disaster response teams would remain on-site to aid the family and provide necessary relief.
Ongoing Mop-Up Operations in uMgungundlovu District
The storm that struck Ward 5 was part of a larger system impacting multiple areas within the uMgungundlovu District. The severe weather caused damage across 10 wards within the Msunduzi Local Municipality, leading to significant disruptions.
Uprooted trees, damaged homes and schools, and downed power lines have left the area in need of urgent repairs and clean-up efforts. Technical service teams are currently working to restore electricity and other essential services to affected areas.
Buthelezi confirmed that disaster management teams are assessing the full extent of the damage, working tirelessly to restore normalcy.
“We are prioritizing the reconnection of power and services and addressing damage to critical infrastructure,” he said. “We will remain on the ground until the communities have fully recovered from this destructive storm.”
Lightning Strikes Ignite Fires in eThekwini
Elsewhere in KwaZulu-Natal, lightning strikes caused fires in two homes in the Phoenix and Manor Gardens areas. In both incidents, local residents, along with police, security services, and eThekwini Fire Department teams, responded quickly, containing the flames before they could spread further.
No injuries were reported in either location, though the families affected by the fires now face the challenge of restoring their homes.
The eThekwini Fire Department commended local residents and security services for their swift response, which played a crucial role in minimizing the damage. Efforts are ongoing to assist the affected households as they recover from the damage inflicted by the fires.
Precautionary Measures and Disaster Preparedness
The recent spate of thunderstorms and lightning strikes serves as a reminder of the power and unpredictability of natural forces.
Reverend Buthelezi urged residents to remain vigilant during the summer storm season, taking precautions such as avoiding outdoor activities during storms and staying indoors to reduce the risk of being struck by lightning.
The MEC also encouraged residents to report damaged infrastructure to local authorities promptly so that repairs can be expedited.
“We urge all communities to heed weather warnings and prioritize their safety,” he emphasized. “As a department, we are strengthening our disaster response capabilities to respond swiftly and efficiently in cases of emergency.”
Conclusion: A Time for Community Solidarity
The Mooi-Mpofana lightning tragedy and the resulting damages throughout KwaZulu-Natal highlight the critical importance of preparedness and community resilience.
Local authorities, emergency teams, and residents have rallied together to support those affected, showcasing a united front in the face of adversity. As assessments and repairs continue, the thoughts and prayers of the entire KwaZulu-Natal community remain with the Mkhize family and those affected by the storm.
Reverend Buthelezi concluded, “This difficult time reminds us all of the importance of community, support, and compassion. We stand with the affected families and will continue to work tirelessly to restore their lives to normalcy.”
In other news – Enhle Mbali to prove she was traditionally married to Black Coffee
South African actress Enhle Mbali finds herself embroiled in yet another legal confrontation with her estranged husband, internationally acclaimed DJ Black Coffee.
Although the pair separated years ago, disputes around their traditional marriage and unresolved legal matters have kept their relationship under the spotlight. Recently, Enhle took to Instagram to voice her frustrations, revealing that the ongoing issues with her former partner have yet to reach a resolution. Read More
The post 1 dead and 3 critically injured after lightning strike as KZN Midlands bear brunt of violent thunderstorms appeared first on News365.co.za.
Zim Instantly via Simplex Solutions