At least six people have died following heavy rains that battered areas south of Durban on Wednesday, officials have confirmed.

Emergency and disaster management teams in eThekwini responded to multiple incidents of structural collapse, with both formal and informal buildings affected. Authorities said the fatalities occurred in Folweni, KwaMakhutha, Demat, and Ensimbini after walls gave way while occupants were asleep.

“Rescue teams worked through the night to assist trapped victims. Tragically, six people lost their lives, including a 45-year-old man in KwaMakhutha, a 13-year-old boy in Folweni, a 12-year-old girl in Demat, and a 13-year-old girl in Ensimbini,” the municipality stated.

Search and rescue operations continue, particularly in the Adams Mission area, where additional entrapments have been reported.

According to meteorological reports, 184mm of rainfall was recorded in the Amanzimtoti area between midnight and 5am on Thursday, leading to severe flooding. The worst-affected areas include Amanzimtoti, Moorton, Clairwood, and Isipingo.

As a precaution, authorities have temporarily closed several beaches, including uMdloti, Isipingo, Pipeline Beach, Toti Main, Warner, Winklespruit, and uMgababa.

Reports of uprooted trees and damaged infrastructure have surfaced in areas such as Chatsworth, Umkhomazi, Morningside, and Verulam. Authorities warn that overflowing canals in Isipingo and Prospecton pose a risk of flooding to nearby properties.

Road closures have been implemented in some locations across Durban, and motorists are urged to follow traffic updates and use alternative routes where necessary.

Electricity outages have been reported in several areas, with restoration efforts currently underway. Despite the severe weather, all clinics remain operational and open to the public.

Authorities continue to assess the damage and provide assistance to affected residents.