Woman survives massive tree collapse at Kamgewane home
A massive tree collapse left four Kamgewane families homeless, while a trapped woman escaped serious injury.
A woman trapped inside her home in Kamgewane, Ward 17, is safe after neighbours cut through branches to free her when a massive tree collapsed during heavy rainfall on August 10.
Four families left homeless
According to an eyewitness who is also a victim, Mcabangiseni Xulu, the woman was rushed to hospital and did not suffer serious injuries or broken bones.
While her survival has brought a bit of relief, the incident has left four families homeless and struggling. The fallen tree remains lodged across the damaged houses, preventing residents from retrieving their belongings. According to the house owners, the municipal teams who visited the area admitted they could not remove it, saying the tree was beyond the capacity of their machinery.
According to ward councillor Sizwe Mathebula, a municipal team attended to the scene but could not complete the task of removing the tree. “The municipality has run out of certain tools needed,” he said.
He added that the Department of Social Services would assist with the humanitarian situation.
Appeal for urgent assistance
“We would really like any form of help, including shelter, food, and at least that the tree be removed so that we can get some of our items which can be rescued,” said Ishmael Phaoane, one of the affected residents.
Ten people are now without homes, food and other essentials. Although the woman’s recovery has eased immediate fears, the families remain exposed to harsh conditions and are appealing for urgent assistance from the public.
To assist the families, Phaoane can be contacted on 071 544 9478.
@witbanknews Four families in Kamgewane, Ward 17, have been left homeless after heavy rainfall swept across the area on the night of August 10. The storm caused a large tree to collapse onto their houses, leaving roofs torn off and properties exposed to further damage. #witbanknews #witbank #kamgewane #newsupdate
♬ original sound – Witbank News
Four families in Kamgewane are seeking assistance. They have been left without shelter after heavy rainfall destroyed their houses last night (August 10).
— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) August 11, 2026
Read more here: https://t.co/abOeX8C9s8#witbanknews #witbank #localnews pic.twitter.com/MMfRbfOkOr
Your city, your story, as it happens. Stay in the loop with WITBANK NEWS.
Find us on our website, Facebook, X, Instagram or TikTok
Got a tip? Email: info@witbanknews.co.za
