Thunderstorm wreaks havoc in Tshwane
Houses were damaged, trees uprooted while many areas reported power outages as a severe thunderstorm ripped through the city on Tuesday.
Tshwane was hit by a severe storm on Tuesday afternoon into the evening, leaving a trail of destruction as houses were blown away, trees collapsed over roads, and many residents left without power.
“Last evening’s severe storm has caused massive damage and led to power outages across parts of the city,” the metro said on X.
“The storm has uprooted trees and in some areas, branches have fallen on the road or on overhead power lines, causing a power trip.”
The metro said teams were overwhelmed by the enormous task, but were doing their utmost best to restore power.
Wierdabrug CPF sector 3 spokesperson, Amore Jooste, said Wierdabrug CPF members stepped in to help clear the damage.
“Your swift and selfless actions truly exemplify the spirit of community unity and support.”
Tshwane emergency services (EMS) said the damage extended across Tshwane.
“Multiple houses were blown away and trees uprooted by the storm that ripped through parts of Tshwane on the afternoon and evening of February 20,” said EMS spokesperson deputy chief Charles Mabaso.
Mabaso said in Cullinan and Refilwe, multiple shacks and three houses were blown away.
“No one was injured and disaster management officials are conducting further assessments to determine the total number of households affected.”
In Centurion, trees were ripped apart, forcing streets closed and affecting power lines.
“The streets that were affected included Escort Avenue, Goshawk Street, Seffner Street, Wilhemina Street, Tourmaline Street, Jacana Avenue, Ockert Street, Adam Tas Street, Erasmus Avenue and Lulu Avenue.”
He said the energy and electricity department was informed of the incidents and no one was injured.
In Olievenhoutbosch, on the R55, lightning struck four people, killing two while two remain in a critical condition.
Later around 23:00, the storm ripped through Hammanskraal, in the north of Tshwane, and Mamelodi in the east.
“An estimated 40 shacks were blown away in Kekana Gardens informal settlement, leaving scores without shelter.
“Communities refused to be relocated for temporary accommodation to the Prestige Guest House. Further assessments are ongoing and no injury was reported.”
In Mamelodi, a tree fell on a shack and a child was injured and transported to hospital together with the uninjured mother.
“Two houses were also affected when trees fell on them, but no injury was reported,” said Mabaso.
He added that the energy and electricity department had to disconnect the electricity supply to one of the houses because of compromised power lines.
“Assessments by disaster management officials are ongoing in all areas that were reported to have been affected by the storm.”
Mabaso called on communities to observe the following storm safety measures:
– If possible, stay indoors and away from metal objects.
– Do not seek shelter under a tree or tall object.
– Do not go fishing or play golf, as both golf clubs and fishing rods are strong conductors of electricity.
– Avoid crossing flooded low-lying roads, bridges and swollen streams.
– Be aware that any combination of hail, strong wind, heavy rain and/or excessive lightning can accompany storms.
Residents can report any fire or rescue needs on 107 (toll-free) or 012 358 6300/6400. For ambulance services, call 112 (toll-free).
What a storm. #Thunderstorm #hail #centurion pic.twitter.com/tfTw3CTpms
— Pierre (@dorfling_pierre) February 20, 2024
Storm wreaks havoc in parts of Tshwane pic.twitter.com/HmhBLTd0UG
— City of Tshwane (@CityTshwane) February 21, 2024
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