JUST IN: Three killed in S’African mudslide, homes destroyed
Heavy rainfall led to devastating mudslides in KwaMakhutha, South of Durban, South Africa, resulting in the tragic loss of three lives in the early hours of Thursday, February 20, 2025, according to News24.
The victims, a man and a woman were buried when a mudslide engulfed their home.
Reports indicate that their children managed to escape and sought refuge at a neighbour’s residence, ECR reports on Thursday.
ALS Paramedics spokesperson, Garrith Jamieson, detailed the incident, noting that the structural collapse occurred due to the intense downpours.
Emergency services, including the eThekwini Fire Department, were on the scene to assist with rescue operations.
The severe weather also wreaked havoc in Amanzimtoti, where the local river overflowed, inundating the central business district and rendering roads like Bjorseth Crescent and Commercial Road impassable.
According to CITIZEN, Councillor André Beetge advised residents to avoid the area, emphasizing that several roads remained flooded and numerous trees had been uprooted.
In a related incident, “residents of the Elders Voice old age home in Amanzimtoti were evacuated around 4am after a neighbouring wall collapsed, causing mud and water to flood the facility.
“The home’s founder, Joanne Herbst, has appealed for assistance, requesting meals and bedding for the displaced elderly residents.”
The South African Weather Service had previously issued an orange level 5 warning for KwaZulu-Natal, cautioning about potential localized flooding affecting roads, bridges, and low-lying areas.
According to African Insider, authorities continue to urge residents to remain indoors and exercise extreme caution due to the unpredictable conditions.
As rescue and recovery efforts proceed, the community is rallying to support those affected by the disaster.
Meanwhile, PUNCH Online reports that details of the identity of the victims have not yet been made public
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available, the agency says.
A mudslide, also known as a mudflow, is a fast-moving flow of mud, soil, and debris that travels down a slope, usually triggered by heavy rainfall, rapid snowmelt, or volcanic activity.
Mudslides occur when saturated soil loses stability and collapses, often carrying trees, rocks, and structures in its path.
They can cause severe damage to homes, roads, and infrastructure, posing a significant risk to lives and property.
