KZN schools end early, authorities on high alert following more flooding

JOHANNESBURG - KwaZulu-Natal authorities continue to remain on high alert following several flash floods and mudslides due to the adverse weather.
 
On Tuesday, a level five weather warning for disruptive rain and localised flooding was issued for the province.

The weather has put a damper on the start of the academic year, with the provincial education department making the call to release pupils from school early.
 
KwaZulu-Natal Disaster Management has activated a joint operation cluster, encompassing law enforcement, emergency and search and rescue members.

As a result, certain roads have been temporarily closed due to flooding to prevent accidents.

"We have opened public facilities such as sports centres and community halls as safe havens for those who may need them," said KZN COGTA spokesperson, Sboniso Mngadi.

Meanwhile, police are mourning the loss of one of their own who was hit by a truck on the notorious M7 highway.

Constable Zuma from Bellair SAPS was attending to an accident scene at the time.

Garrith Jamieson of ALS paramedics said the M7 has been closed in both directions.

"Unfortunately a police official that was struck by the truck has passed away due to the severity of her injuries."

Schools were earlier instructed by the provincial education department to release pupils and staff by 1 pm due to the inclement weather.