Earlier this afternoon, at around 4pm, Mi7 National Group's Emergency Medical Services was dispatched to the Marina Beach area near Southbroom after reports of a freak wave that struck a beach-side restaurant filled with patrons.
The initial wave crashed into the restaurant, pushing patrons towards the back of the building. When it receded, a few patrons were swept into the ocean. Luckily, they managed to get back to shore safely.
The initial wave was followed by a rising tide, which continued to batter the restaurant.
In total, seven patients sustained minor to severe injuries, five of whom were taken to hospital by Mi7 medics and their counterparts from another service provider.
The incident comes during a period of high spring tides, causing damage across coastal towns along the country’s East Coast, especially between Gqeberha and Cape Town.
We warn residents living near shorelines to take extra precautions. We also caution against visiting KZN's beaches…
