A VICIOUS thunderstorm and strong winds blasted shops in the Tubatse CBD and surrounding areas on the evening of March 17.
A block of flats next to the Burgersfort taxi rank was left roofless.
Imram Mahomed, a resident, said the rain had left him homeless. “We love and enjoy rain, but when it destroys our stuff it is unacceptable. I was scared I was going to die when the storms lifted the roof of my flat. It was like a tornado, a heavy one. Our flats were wiped out in a matter of seconds.
“I stepped outside at about 18:00 and heard the approaching roar. My daughter was already in the basement, so I ran downstairs and grabbed her, crouched in the living room and suddenly the roof was gone. I am just glad we escaped unhurt,” said the relieved father.
Pep stores, situated in the Absa shopping complex, was also struck by the storm. The extent of the damage to property and stock is not yet known.
The long-distance taxi rank behind Burgersfort Mall was also affected. Street vendors at the rank said they were relieved at not being around when the storm broke. “We thank God the huge storm came after we left for our homes. We could have died!” one vendor remarked.
Several trees were uprooted around Riba Cross, Extension 10, Mashamothane and Manoke and some windscreens were damaged. “It has been ages since we experienced such a storm; it caused a lot of havoc. I bet a mermaid was passing through our town,” said Sifiso Magale.
Burgersfort police confirmed that no one was injured. At the time of going to print no comment had been received from Greater Tubatse Municipality disaster management team.
