Authorities report widespread destruction in Durban and surrounding areas as severe weather continues.

Severe flooding in and around the South African city of Durban has resulted in at least seven deaths, with another seven people still missing. The heavy rainfall, which began earlier this week, caused widespread devastation in KwaZulu-Natal province, prompting rescue efforts.

According to local government officials, six of the victims died in Durban, while one fatality occurred in Port Shepstone, a beachside town located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) south of the city. The bodies of two victims, a woman in her 20s and a teenage girl, were recovered from a canal in Durban, bringing the death toll to seven.

Rescue teams are still actively searching for the seven missing people. In addition to the human toll, around 70 houses have been destroyed and over 100 others have been damaged, leaving more than 150 people homeless. Many of the displaced have sought shelter in schools and other buildings.

This week’s extreme weather has also brought heavy rains, strong winds, and a rare “landspout” tornado to the region. The tornado, which struck an area on the outskirts of Durban, saw wind speeds recorded at over 100 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour), according to the South African Weather Service.