Motorists have been urged to be extra cautious while driving on rain-slick roads following multiple accidents and injuries around Durban on Monday morning, with more rain predicted for KZN this week.
ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson urged all motorists to exercise caution in this wet weather that we are currently experiencing.
“I would advise all motorists to please take extra caution, please leave a little earlier to reach your destination on time and please ensure that your vehicle is in good condition including windscreen wipers, tyres and drive with your headlights on,” he said.
Jamieson said ALS Paramedics attended to multiple collisions, treated and transported multiple casualties this morning alone.
“Please stay safe as this wet weather is predicted for a few days,” he added.
He detailed a multiple vehicle crash that occurred around 7.30am on the M7 Pinetown Bound after the Bellville offramp.
“Paramedics arrived on scene to find the badly damaged vehicles in the roadway. A total of four vehicles were involved in this collision and it is alleged that one of the vehicles was travelling towards Durban when he somehow lost control and went through the centre before colliding into three cars before overturning,” said Jamieson.
He said paramedics found multiple patients on the scene.
“A total of five people sustained various injuries and were stabilised on the scene by ALS Paramedics before being transported to various Durban hospitals for the further care that they required,” he said.
in another accident around 12pm, Jamieson said two trucks collied on the M7 Durban bound near the N3 on ramp.
“One person is severely entrapped in the wreckage and rescuers are using the Jaws of Life to try and cut the man free while advanced life support paramedics try and stabilise the man in the truck,” he said.
KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has placed disaster management teams on high alert following a severe thunderstorm warning for the province.
Cogta spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila said the South African Weather Service(Saws) issued a Level 2 Warning for the region, with possible impacts including localised damage to infrastructure, homes, vehicles, and livestock.
“The storm is expected to affect the province from 11:00 am today [Monday] until 11:59 pm, and it is forecast to bring heavy rains, strong winds, lightning, and potential hail,” he said.
Mzila said roads in low-lying areas were also at risk of flooding, and power surges may occur due to the high probability of excessive lightning.
“Residents are urged to exercise caution during this period. Residents are warned that bridges and roads in flood-prone areas may be particularly dangerous. Outdoor activities should be avoided due to the increased risk of injuries from lightning, hail, and flooding,” he said.
The department encouraged the public to stay indoors where possible, keep clear of windows, and ensure that pets and vehicles were secured in sheltered areas.
Livestock should also be moved to safe locations as flying debris could pose a threat, he added.
“The Department of Cogta will continue to monitor the situation closely and will coordinate with disaster management teams to respond to any emergencies. Residents are advised to stay updated through local news platforms and official weather reports.
“Stay safe and vigilant during this period. The department will issue further updates as necessary,” said Mzila.
The Mercury