Storms cause KZN blackouts

Johannesburg - Several parts in northern KwaZulu-Natal and the midlands are without electricity after being hit by violent storms and heavy rains, the SABC reported on Tuesday.

Parts of Pietermaritzburg, Empangeni and Newcastle were without power.

Zanele Dlamini for Eskom said the problem was being attended to.

In the Eastern Cape, a freak hail storm caused damage to buildings and crops around Umtata.

Residents said hail stones bigger than golf balls broke windows and damaged roofs.

King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality spokesperson Sonwabo Maphoza said councillors were assessing the damage.

On Sunday night, seven people burnt to death when their hut was struck by lightning at Mombheni near Mandini.

Source: www.news24.com