/ 17 January 2015

Two injured in Nkandla lightning strike

Two Injured In Nkandla Lightning Strike

Two people were seriously injured after lightning struck near them in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, during inclement weather, emergency services said on Saturday.

Spokesperson Robert Mckenzie said the two were transported to the Nkandla Hospital on Friday night. He said large storm clouds covered almost the entire province, and bad weather conditions caused damage and injury.

“On the south coast there were patches of heavy rain with strong winds. Several thatch stalls on Margate’s beachfront collapsed in the wind,” he said. “Paramedics treated three patients who had been nearby [the beachfront] for minor injuries. These patients were transported to hospital by paramedics from a private ambulance service.” He could not provide further detail on it. 

In Cato Ridge, strong winds were reported and in Pietermaritzburg there were multiple reports of hail falling.

Mckenzie said the hail was larger than golf balls. Several trees uprooted, one in Langibalele Street.

In Nkandla, around 10 houses were damaged. “Disaster management teams were on standby last night [Friday] and together with other government agencies will be going out to assess the damage this morning and provide assistance where needed.” – Sapa