Johannesburg EMS on alert as families rebuild following severe storm damage

Families whose homes were damaged by severe weather over the weekend of September 5 and 6 are beginning the difficult task of rebuilding.

This comes after strong winds tore roofs off buildings in parts of Johannesburg, leaving residents displaced and properties exposed to the elements. While the City of Johannesburg’s emergency management services (EMS) confirmed there were no reported injuries or fatalities linked to the adverse weather, officials say rescue teams remain on standby during periods of severe weather to respond quickly when disaster strikes.

Johannesburg EMS responded to at least six incidents across the city on September 5 and 6 namely in Langlaagte, where a tree fell on a vehicle, in Kenilworth, where a lapa collapsed onto a vehicle, in Protea Glen, where a tree fell onto a house, in Northcliff, where a house was completely gutted by fire, in Windsor West, where there was a flat fire incident, and in Claremont, where the roof of two flats was torn off.

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EMS spokesperson Xolile Khumalo stated that among the worst affected were Linden and Claremont, where roofs were ripped from buildings. “The incidents highlighted the dangers rescue teams face when responding to damaged structures, particularly where unstable roofing poses additional risks.”

Most residents from the eight evacuated units at the Linden Hill Gardens complex in Linden have since gone to stay with friends or family, according to Tiaan Schutte of the Linden Community Association, who said this was the information he had been given. The publication also made contact with the property agents for more information, but they declined to comment.

Khumalo added that the city’s emergency services remain fully equipped and trained to deal with weather-related emergencies. She added that rescue teams are placed on standby whenever severe weather is forecast to ensure a rapid response. “With 30 fire stations across the seven regions of Johannesburg and highly trained rescue teams strategically positioned in high-risk areas, EMS is able to respond quickly and effectively to weather-related incidents.”

She explained that one of the biggest challenges after storms is dealing with damaged roofs, as unstable structures require careful safety assessments before firefighters and rescue teams can safely enter. “EMS has salvage sheets readily available to temporarily secure damaged structures and protect properties from further damage until permanent repairs can be undertaken by the respective building owners,” she said.

Khumalo added that community co-operation is vital during emergency operations. “EMS also appeals to affected residents and communities to co-operate with rescue teams, and allow them to work without interruption. Community co-operation is essential to ensuring the safety of both residents and emergency personnel, and enables EMS to carry out its operations safely and efficiently.”

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Ward 99 councillor Hendrik Bodenstein said the emotional impact on residents should not be underestimated, despite the absence of serious injuries. “For the residents affected, this was devastating. There are few things more frightening than suddenly seeing your home exposed to the elements. Eight flats had to be evacuated, and my heart truly goes out to every family who suffered damage or displacement.”

Bodenstein praised Johannesburg EMS for its response to the emergency. “When people needed the city most, they showed up. I am deeply grateful to the brave men and women who responded and helped keep residents safe.”

Although the immediate emergency has passed, he said recovery efforts are only beginning for many affected families. Residents are reminded to contact Johannesburg EMS on 011 375 5911 or dial 112 in the event of an emergency.

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