Mhlaba Memela

Mhlaba Memela

Distraught residents of Emalangeni village in Ndwedwe, north of Durban, braved torrential rains to pay their last respects to five people who died during last week's freak storm.

Eight flood victims, including the four Ngcobo brothers, were buried on Saturday.

Local mayor Sthembiso Kubheka said his municipality would urgently appeal to the national government for funds to assist families left with nothing.

"We are in need of money to ensure that those who suffered from the storm get assistance and have strong shelters over their heads," Kubheka said.

Four brothers Bhekinkosi Ngcobo, 48, Ntendelezi Ngcobo, 46, Bonginkosi Ngcobo, 42, and Muziwokufika Ngcobo, 36, were killed when lightning struck their home a week ago.

Kwazikwakhe Khuluse, 42, who also died during the havoc, was buried after a mass funeral.

Nine Ngcobo relatives are recovering from burn wounds after they were rushed to hospital.

Victor Ngcobo said his family was shattered and "still in pain after what happened".