Heavy rains triggered severe flooding in South Africa’s Port Shepstone and surrounding areas on KwaZulu‑Natal’s South Coast on Sunday, damaging roads, homes and businesses, the provincial Cooperative Governance Department confirmed.
Spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila said the coastal belt from Margate through Oslo Beach to Port Shepstone bore the brunt of the downpour, which began around 16:30.
Shopping malls, including the Shelly Centre, were inundated while several businesses closed and homes were waterlogged.
Disaster management teams have been deployed to begin mop‑up operations.
Preliminary reports indicate no fatalities or injuries.
The flooding comes amid heightened weather alerts.
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa last week warned of above‑normal rainfall and thunderstorms expected across central and eastern South Africa during the festive season.
Forecasts point to frequent storms on the Highveld and a 30-60 percent chance of thunderstorms in eastern provinces as Christmas and New Year approach.
Hlabisa cautioned that while rainfall is welcome in many regions, conditions increase the risk of flooding, lightning, strong winds and poor visibility.
He urged communities and holidaymakers to monitor official updates, avoid crossing flooded roads and rivers, secure homes and loose items, and exercise caution when travelling.
Vulnerable groups, particularly children, should be kept away from swollen streams and open water, he said.
JN/APA