*Media Statement For Immediate Release* Disaster Management Teams Responding to Severe Flooding Across South Coast Durban, 26 February 2025 Heavy weather conditions have caused widespread flooding across the KwaZulu Natal South Coast, leading to an immediate response from disaster management teams. Authorities have received numerous emergency calls from residents affected by rising floodwaters. In response, teams from Ugu Disaster Management and Ray Nkonyeni Municipality (RNM) Fire and Rescue Services have been sent out to conduct evacuations and provide assistance to affected communities. Several roads have been badly flooded, making them impassable. Affected areas include * N2 Murchison * Umbango Bridge * Kwangwabe * Grace Low Level Bridge * Beach Garage * Nkongweni Bridge at Margate * OK Foods and Pharmacy (Margate) The South African Police Service (SAPS), Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and other emergency services have been activated to support the ongoing relief efforts. The KZN Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi has assured residents that disaster response teams are working around the clock to rescue residents that are trapped by the floods. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of our residents,” stated MEC Buthelezi. “We are working tirelessly to assist those affected by the floods and to lessen further damage.” At this moment, no fatalities have been reported. However, residents are urged to take extreme care and avoid travelling in affected areas. Key Interventions being coordinated by the Provincial Disaster Management Centre: * Disaster management teams are actively carrying out evacuations in high risk areas. * Emergency services are on standby to provide medical assistance and support. * Road closures are in place for several key routes. The public is advised to keep an eye on local news and official channels for further updates and instructions. Issued by the KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.