Over 200 Soshanguve homes damaged by severe storms
Most damaged homes had broken windows and damaged roof tiles, while three people had to be taken to hospital after half of their roof collapsed.
Tshwane faced severe thunderstorms on October 20 that led to widespread damage in the city, particularly impacting homes in Soshanguve.
After a warning from the Tshwane Emergency Services Department and a yellow Level 4 warning from the South African Weather Service, severe weather conditions began to unfold, which led to a building collapsing around 17:00 in Soshanguve Ext 10.
Spokesperson Lindsay Mnguni said Tshwane Emergency Services were dispatched swiftly to respond to reports of significant damage to residential structures caused by strong wind and heavy rainfall.
Mnguni said firefighters discovered a house that had sustained extensive damage, with several neighbouring properties also affected.
Their assessment revealed that the thunderstorms had affected numerous households across the area.
“In Soshanguve Ext 10, 54 people from 17 households were impacted. In Ext 19, 41 individuals from 10 households experienced storm damage, while 200 shacks housing about 800 residents were affected at Changing Spot Informal settlement,” said Mnguni.
He said the extent of the damage varied, with most homes having broken windows and damaged roof tiles.
“Some properties experienced severe structural damage, including one house where half of the roof collapsed.
“Three occupants of that house sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe and were treated and transported to the nearest hospital for treatment.”
He said the department mobilised to provide immediate assistance and firefighters distributed salvage sheets to help cover open holes in roofs and walls, particularly for vulnerable residents including the elderly.
Mnguni added that the thunderstorms also caused considerable damage to local infrastructure.
“Power lines and transformers were affected which resulted in additional risks to public safety.
“Firefighters were dispatched to deal with a transformer fire in Soshanguve Block PP2, where an electricity pole had ignited due to the storm’s impact.”
The metro encouraged all residents to observe safety measures, including:
– Staying indoors and avoiding metal object during thunderstorms.
– Refraining from seeking shelter under trees or tall structures.
– Avoiding travel across flooded areas and swollen streams.
Residents are urged to monitor weather alerts, follow safety recommendations and remain vigilant during ongoing inclement weather.
Any fire or rescue incidents can be reported to the Emergency Communication Centre at the toll-free number 107 or 012 358 6300/6400.
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