Severe Flooding Wreaks Havoc Across Port Shepstone and KwaZulu-Natal South Coast

Severe flooding caused by relentless heavy rainfall has left a trail of destruction across Port Shepstone and surrounding areas along KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast. The downpour, which began late on Sunday afternoon, resulted in widespread damage to homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure, forcing temporary closures and prompting emergency response efforts.

The extreme weather event affected both private and public property, highlighting once again the vulnerability of coastal communities to intense rainfall and flooding-related disasters.

As flooding intensified on Sunday, several businesses in Port Shepstone and nearby towns were forced to shut their doors. Shopping hubs, commercial buildings, and small enterprises experienced significant water damage, disrupting trade and daily operations.

Residential areas were also severely impacted, with numerous homes becoming waterlogged as stormwater overwhelmed drainage systems. In some neighborhoods, residents were left dealing with flooded rooms, damaged furniture, and unsafe living conditions. While clean-up efforts are expected to take days or even weeks, many homeowners are already assessing the financial and emotional toll of the flooding.

Flooding Damages Key Infrastructure Along the Coastal Belt

According to KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila, the flooding primarily affected the coastal belt stretching from Margate through Oslo Beach to Port Shepstone. The region experienced intense rainfall beginning at approximately 16:30 on Sunday, 21 December 2025.

“The coastal belt bore the brunt of the downpour,” Mzila said. “The rainfall resulted in extensive damage to road infrastructure, commercial properties, and shopping hubs, including the Shelly Centre.”

Several roads were left partially submerged or damaged, making travel dangerous and, in some cases, impossible. The damage to road infrastructure has raised concerns about accessibility for emergency services and residents, especially in low-lying areas prone to flooding.

Disaster Management Teams Respond to Flooding Emergency

In response to the flooding, disaster management teams were swiftly deployed across the affected areas. Authorities have begun assessing the extent of the damage, while mop-up operations are set to get underway as weather conditions improve.

Emergency crews are focusing on clearing debris, restoring road access, and ensuring that affected communities receive the necessary support. Local municipalities are also coordinating with provincial authorities to determine whether further assistance will be required for displaced residents and struggling businesses.

Despite the scale of the flooding and the extensive damage reported, authorities have confirmed that no fatalities or injuries have been recorded so far.

“Reports indicate that there are no fatalities or injuries,” Mzila confirmed.

This news has come as a relief to many residents, given the history of deadly flooding events in KwaZulu-Natal in recent years. However, officials continue to urge caution as water levels remain high in certain areas and additional rainfall cannot be ruled out.

The latest flooding incident has once again drawn attention to broader challenges facing coastal towns in KwaZulu-Natal. Aging infrastructure, rapid urban development, and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns have all contributed to the severity of flooding events in the region.

Experts warn that without improved stormwater systems, better land-use planning, and proactive disaster preparedness, communities along the South Coast may continue to face repeated flooding disasters. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to report damaged infrastructure or unsafe conditions to local authorities.

As Port Shepstone begins the long recovery process, community resilience will play a key role in rebuilding after the flooding. Local businesses, residents, and authorities are expected to work together to restore normalcy, repair damage, and support those most affected.

While the immediate focus remains on clean-up and safety, the flooding serves as a stark reminder of the need for long-term solutions to protect lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure along KwaZulu-Natal’s vulnerable coastline.

Source- EWN