Community faces devastation after severe flooding

THE community of Shiyabazali in New Hanover is coming to terms with the loss and devastation that Sunday's heavy rainfall and the subsequent flooding inflicted upon them.

- SIPHO JACK [e-mail]

The disaster has left many families destitute and homeless.

This situation has prompted an urgent reaction from both local leaders and the provincial government, under the guidance of MEC of Transport and Human Settlement, Siboniso Duma.

Among those affected in the community was Siyanda Zakwe.

She spoke to the Daily News about her extreme weather experience and how she narrowly escaped when rising water from the Injasotho River surged towards her home.

“When I realised the pace at which the water flowed in the direction of my home, I immediately escaped through a window,” she said.

Zakwe suffered minor injuries to her lower body as she attempted to escape. She appealed to authorities for assistance in recovering her identity documents, medical records, and bank cards.

“I would appreciate help to replace what I’ve lost, as well as clothes to wear to work tomorrow. I have only my pyjamas left.”