WATCH | Mop-up operations begin after violent storm

A severe storm that swept through Pietermaritzburg and parts of eThekwini has left a trail of damage, prompting emergency response teams and disaster management authorities to begin mop-up operations. The storm, which struck on Sunday evening, was characterised by gale-force winds, heavy rain, thunder and hail, uprooting trees, damaging infrastructure and disrupting traffic across affected areas. KwaZulu Private Ambulance spokesperson Craig Botha said emergency teams were mobilised shortly after the storm hit.

“The severity of the weather system was most evident in areas such as Bishopstowe, where there were reports of a possible tornado touchdown,” said Botha. Numerous trees were damaged, blocking roads and posing a risk to residents. One of the more dramatic incidents occurred at the Checkers at Scottsville Mall, where a vehicle was pinned beneath a large falling tree as occupants sought shelter from the storm.

“Despite significant damage to the vehicle, no injuries were reported,” Botha said. Major routes were also affected, including the N3 southbound off-ramp, where a fallen tree caused significant traffic delays. Emergency teams worked to secure the area and manage the flow of vehicles while clearing operations got underway. A second obstruction on Hesketh Drive added to the disruption, with teams working to remove debris and restore access.