The number of people who have died following the severe storm which ravaged the Mtubatuba area, KZN, over the weekend has risen to six.

This was revealed by the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) earlier today at a briefing by KZN Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, Cogta MEC Bongi Sithole Moloi, Human Settlements MEC Sipho Nkosi, uMkhanyakude Mayor Siphile Mdaka and Inkosi Ntokozo Mkhwanazi.

Three of the deceased are from the Machibini area, and one from Maphelane.

Tragically, three small children were among the deceased.

Dube-Ncube sent condolences to the families of the deceased and said it was unfortunate that children who cannot fend for themselves lost their lives.

She offered condolences to the Mthethwa family who lost their 13-year-old son during the weekend’s storm.

Mdaka said the neighbourly spirit shown by people who have welcomed those who had their homes destroyed is commendable.