South Africa: Response operations ongoing following flooding in parts of KwaZulu-Natal Province, as of Jan. 14

Response operations are ongoing in part of KwaZulu-Natal Province Jan. 14 following heavy rain and associated flooding. Local officials stated that uMgungundlovu, uMzinyathi, and Harry Gwala districts have been worst impacted and have confirmed that six people have died. Multiple rivers have flooded, overwhelming low-lying bridges and making them impassable. Preliminary reports have indicated that several homes have been damaged in the impacted districts; damage assessments are ongoing and it may be some time before the full extent of the rain's impact is confirmed. Ground transport services in the area have been impacted by the severe weather and further disruptions to transport, business, and utilities are likely over the coming hours and days. The South African Weather Service has forecast further adverse weather in the region. Additional downpours could trigger flooding and hamper ongoing recovery efforts.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Additional power outages are possible in areas impacted by the weather system.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. The disruptive weather may cause additional delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas subject to heavy rainfall and track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after weather conditions have improved; it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.