The collapse of multiple structures (pylons) holding high-voltage cables running across the N4 highway in Gauteng, resulted in a multi-vehicle accident last night.

The repercussions of the events between Simon Vermooten Road and Solomon Mahlangu Drive saw large parts of Pretoria and Centurion left without power this morning.

Initial reports suggest heavy rain and strong winds are reportedly the cause of the pylons collapsing.

Paramedics services Pro Med EMS responded to the accident last night.

In a statement, Pro Med explains that paramedics found that multiple structures (pylons) holding high-voltage cables running across the highway collapsed.

“This led to cables hanging extremely low over the highway which in turn caused multiple vehicles to collide,” the statement reads.

“The exact cause of the incident remains unknown but it is believed that due to a storm in the area, the strong winds contributed to the collapse of these structures.”

Two moderately injured patients were assessed and treated on the scene. They were transported to hospital.

Ward councillors in the affected areas reported that power could take between a day and as much as a week to restore.

In a message to residents, local ward councillor Malcolm de Klerk says the N4 and Solomon Mahlangu Drive remained shut as the cables had by 08:00 not been moved yet.

“Work will continue this morning on getting these cables off the roads and making it safe for tomorrow’s work day,” De Klerk explains.

These substations, according to De Klerk, are affected:
– Wapadrand
– Mooikloof
– Waltoo
– Heatherly