Severe storms in Bushbuckridge on Sunday claimed four lives and saw over 40 people admitted to various hospitals.

The storm also caused damage to more than 30 schools in the area, including in the Ximhungwe, Thulamahashe, Cottondale, Marite, Shatale and Maboke educational circuits in the Bohlabela Educational District.

According to the deputy minister of education, Dr Reginah Mhaule, the inclement weather also threatened the administration of the National Senior Certificate exams and disrupted schooling, as more than 10 high schools were severely damaged.

“I would like to commend the swift action of the district officials, who averted a crisis on Monday by protecting the matric exams, which went on as planned, despite the damage.

“The classrooms of the lower grades that had not been affected were used as exam rooms in some schools, but most of all, we appreciate the kind gesture of our churches who have offered their buildings to be used for exam purposes as well. We are truly grateful,” she said.

Rain persisted in the area last night, resulting in more damage to houses in various villages, as the power supply was cut off and some roads were inaccessible.

Mhaule said an assessment of the damage to schools will be conducted, but it could be hampered by the persistent rain.

She urged community members to report any damage and avoid crossing rivers, and to keep a close eye on weather updates from the South African Weather Service.

“We will work with other government departments and local government to continue to monitor the situation and support affected families. We convey our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and those who have lost their belongings,” Mhaule said.

Yesterday, the Ehlanzeni District Municipality’s executive mayor, Terra Shabangu, convened an extended district disaster management meeting to look into urgent interventions for the areas hit by the torrential rainfall over the past few days.

“The reports from all four local municipalities presented by the respective municipal managers have painted a clear picture of the situation on the ground.

“It was agreed upon that all reports from all stakeholders should be sent to the district Joint Operations Committee (JOC) by 11:00 on Tuesday (today). There they will be consolidated and forwarded to the provincial JOC as soon as possible,” he said.