Heavy rains, which were greeted with initial delight by residents, began lashing Ladysmith and surrounding areas just after 4pm yesterday afternoon.

But, as over 100mm fell in little under two hours, the storm-water drainage system once again failed Ladysmith, with water backing up in low-lying areas as blocked drains failed to clear the water fast enough.

Bridges in the lower end of town were overflowing, with large parts of low-lying areas actually flooded.

Reports that several cars were stuck in flooded areas have been confirmed, as well as extensive damage to homes and businesses in the area.

A wall at Neal’s Tyres collapsed under the weight of fast-flowing water.

While it rained basically for the most part of the night, the actual damage was caused by heavy rains falling in a two-hour period, unofficially recorded at 100mm in the CBD itself.

Speaking to a local farmer, he expressed delight at the rains. “We can breathe a little easier today after the rains.” He asked not to be named.

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