There are nearly 100 households, several schools, and public facilities that were affected by the strong winds in Ehlanzeni on Monday, June 9. A preliminary report has confirmed that 19 houses in Nkomazi, 42 in the City of Mbombela, 29 in Bushbuckridge, and eight in Thaba Chweu local municipalities have been damaged. Mainly, their roofs were blown away.

In a statement, the Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (Coghsta) said Monday’s severe winds caused significant damage across parts of the City of Mbombela, particularly in the Pienaar area. The destructive winds have disrupted daily life and local infrastructure. The provincial Department of Education has reported damages to several schools.

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Freddy Ngobe, Coghsta’s spokesperson, said the Provincial Disaster Management Centre is supporting affected households with humanitarian items such as temporary shelter.

Ngobe said that despite the challenges posed by the weather, no fatalities have been reported. The Department of Education has also confirmed that all the learners scheduled to write their June examinations were able to do so without any disruptions.

The MEC for Coghsta, Speed Mashilo, said the disaster management team is currently conducting thorough assessments to determine the full extent of the damage caused by the strong winds. “We are working closely with the relevant authorities and community partners to facilitate recovery efforts and provide assistance to affected residents,” he said.

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Mashilo said that the disaster management team will remain standby while monitoring the weather updates.

“The department remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of communities. The Ehlanzeni District Municipality will continue to convene a Joint Operations Committee meeting with the municipalities to produce comprehensive reports.”