Heavy rains that began on Thursday afternoon have caused widespread flooding in Durban’s Upper Highway area, affecting Pinetown, Hillcrest, and Kloof. Authorities have urged residents to avoid non-essential travel as several roads and bridges remain impassable.
Emergency services are responding to reports that two vehicles were swept away on Stapleton Road in Pinetown. While these reports have not yet been confirmed, ALS Paramedics said teams are on the scene, working to locate the vehicles.
“The river next to the road is flowing rapidly, and the road is heavily waterlogged,” said ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson. Durban Metro Police have confirmed that the M19 Westbound under the N2 bridge is flooded and currently impassable. Several vehicles have already become stranded in the water.
Flooding has also been reported on the N2 under Wandsbeck Road, near Westwood Mall, where only one lane remains open to traffic.
The Kloof Community Policing Forum issued a notice on the Upper Highway Information Facebook group, warning of significant disruption across the area.
“We have multiple cars stuck up to window height and are working to assess and assist at each location. Several trees have also fallen onto roads, while we may not be able to clear them all tonight, we will mark hazardous areas with danger tape,” the notice said. Kloof Falls Road through the gorge is closed between Kloof Falls and Ronalds Road. Reports have also confirmed flooding at Kloof Village Mall.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 6 warning for heavy rain and flooding, citing a high risk of damage. The warning remains in effect until midnight on Friday, 14 March. The affected municipalities include eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Mkhambathini, Ndwedwe, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni, uMuziwabantu, and Umzumbe.
Emergency services have advised the public to exercise caution and avoid travelling through flooded areas. Motorists are urged not to attempt to drive through standing water and to monitor official updates for further information.
