A tornado swept through the North of Pretoria on Tuesday afternoon, leaving a trail of destruction across several suburbs.

While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, reports confirm significant damage to buildings, and authorities are working to determine if there have been any injuries or fatalities.

The Tshwane Emergency Department as well as other role players are currently on the scene.

Shocked residents have taken to social media, sharing photos and videos of the damage caused by the tornado, along with footage of the storm itself.

Here are some videos and photos shared on social media:

@rekordpretoria Watch: Tornado hits Pretoria North A tornado hit Pretoria North on Tuesday afternoon, causing severe building damage, with the extent of injuries and destruction still unclear. Read more here: https://www.citizen.co.za/rekord/news-headlines/2025/02/18/watch-tornado-hits-pretoria-north/ Video: Facebook/Storm Report SA #breakingnews #pretoria #tornado #Weather #latestnews ♬ original sound rekordpretoria

@rekordpretoria Watch: Tornado strikes the North of Pretoria on Tuesday, Leaving Trail of Destruction  Read more and watch videos here: https://tinyurl.com/2wtajb3k #breakingnews #Weather #latestnews #tornado ♬ original sound – rekordpretoria

This is a developing story, and we will provide more details as soon as further information becomes available.

This comes as a level five warning is currently in place for disruptive rain in Pretoria.

The SA Weather Service has issued an orange level 5 warning for disruptive rainfall that could flood roads, bridges and settlements.

The City of Tshwane Emergency Services spokesperson, Lindsay Zwelithini Mnguni, announced that they will continue monitoring weather reports and remain on high alert for any related emergencies.

“We urge residents to be vigilant and report any fire or rescue incidents by calling 107 toll-free or 012 358 6300/6400. When reporting, stay calm, speak clearly, provide the correct address and contact details for follow-up,” he said.

Mnguni outlined the potential impacts of the severe rain, including:

• Localised flooding, especially in low-lying areas, informal settlements, and vulnerable roads.
• Risks of mudslides, rockfalls, and soil erosion.
• Severe lightning strikes leading to fires.
• Traffic disruptions from flooded roads.
• Vehicle accidents due to poor visibility and slippery conditions.
• Service disruptions from power failures or infrastructure damage.
• Inaccessibility of some communities.
• Life-threatening fast-flowing streams and rivers.

Mnguni emphasized safety measures, urging residents to:

• Stay indoors and avoid metal objects during lightning.
• Avoid outdoor activities like fishing or golf in the rain.
• Never shelter under isolated trees or tall objects during thunderstorms.
• Avoid crossing flooded roads and streams.

He encouraged residents to stay informed, monitor weather forecasts, and follow safety tips from the South African Weather Service and other trusted sources.

*Please note that the article has been amended.

Also read: Shocking torture videos from Pretoria’s Zanzou nightclub – Victims urged to come forward

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