KwaZulu-Natal should be declared a disaster area.

This is the assertion by Cooperative Governance Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma.

Due to heavy downpours, several homes have washed way, roads collapsed, and people drowned. At least 45 people have died as a result, with scores of others still missing.

Dlamini-Zuma adds that KwaZulu-Natal and local disaster management teams nationwide are on high alert and aiding affected communities where necessary.

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Meanwhile, relief organisations say getting much needed supplies to impacted KwaZulu-Natal residents has become increasingly difficult.

Chairperson of the Caring Sisters Network Yasiera Solomon says despite the hurdles caused by areas being waterlogged, NGOs have sprung to the aid to those in need of food.