At least 59 lives have been lost in KwaZulu Natal where torrential rain and flooding have caused havoc and destruction.

The province has since been declared a disaster area with numerous rescue operations underway and residents trying to assist each other where possible.

The Citizen reports that at least 59 lives have been lost and that load-shedding to the region have been suspended to assist with rescue efforts.

Local airlines Kulula and Safair have announced that residents with flights in and out of Durban can postpone their flights at no extra cost.

The South African Weather Service predicts a 60% chance of rain for today with skies somewhat clearing up on the southern parts of KZN.

On social media, affected residents have warned those who have planned Easter holidays to the South Coast, not to come.

The Northern Natal Courier reports that a grandmother and four of her grandchildren have lost their lives after their car was washed off a bridge in Tongaat. She was fetching her grandchildren from Buffelsdale, after her daughter’s home flooded, when the incident happened.

In Melville on the South Coast, 12 people were rescued in a joint effort by volunteers, the South Coast Herald reports.

The paper has also warned motorists that a section of the R102 near Hibberdine is on the verge of collapsing.

Municipal halls in the uMdoni municipality which includes the Scottburgh and Pennington aeras have been opened as temporary relief shelters.

Click here to watch the Uvongo River in flood.

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