A family of eight from KwaNzimakwe has been left with nothing, but the clothes on their backs after their home was struck by lightning last Friday.

The head of the house, Mishack Radebe said he was glad that there were no fatalities or casualties after their eight bedroom house caught alight.

“There was a huge thunderstorm and all I felt was a tremble when a ball of lightning entered through the front door as we were seated in the lounge. We managed to evacuate the lounge, ran outside, heard a crackling sound, then a blaze started,” described Hadebe.

He said the family ran to safety to a rondavel which is built on the side of the main house, and heard neighbours screaming in shock on witnessing the incident.

“The fire department came to our rescue and put the fire out, however all the rooms were engulfed in flames, our groceries, furniture and appliances too. Only some of the walls remain which are scorched with black smoke.

“We have absolutely nothing and appeal to to the community and the municipality for assistance,” Radebe added.

He said his family has six children, aged 14, 11, 7, 5,4 and three months, and would appreciate any help they can get.

“We have received some clothes and food from our neighbours, however we do not know long it will last, and how we will survive for the rest of December.

If able to assist, contact Mishack on
072 3478093 or 0655 751592.

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