The aftermath of the catastrophic Tornado that affected Pretoria, Tuesday night. Image : Kaya Mews shared via X.
(The Post News)- A tornado left a path of devastation in Tshwane, with hundreds of homes and buildings damaged, adding to the destruction caused by the ongoing torrential downpours throughout Gauteng. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
According to Lindsay Zwelithini Mnguni, a spokesman for the City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department, “emergency response teams have been sent to several locations.” He stated that residents had to evacuate their homes after they flooded.
The tornado damaged multiple buildings, cars, and other properties in Montana’s Pretoria North. Emergency response teams, firefighters from the fire and rescue operations division, and representatives from the disaster risk management department arrived at the scene.
Mnguni stated that the Emergency Communication Center (ECC) received a report of flooding at approximately 6 p.m. on Tuesday. “Firefighting resources from the Innesdale, Wonderboom, and Rosslyn fire stations were dispatched to the area immediately by the ECC. These included a district commander’s unit, a video unit, a rapid intervention unit, and a swift water rescue unit,” said Mnguni.
Upon arrival, firefighters found that the storm had caused extensive damage, uprooting trees and blowing away corrugated iron roof sheets from buildings, carports, and other structures along Sefako Makgatho Drive. One complex suffered significant damage.
A residential complex on Veda Street, near Enkeldoorn Street, was severely damaged, with multiple buildings sustaining significant damage, particularly on the upper floors and roofs. Strong winds knocked down external geysers and corrugated iron roof sheets, leaving the unit structures vulnerable to the rain.
“The upper floors of residential apartments suffered water damage due to rainwater seeping through. Our disaster management officials are already on the scene assessing the damage and determining how they can best support the affected families. The residents had to be evacuated and temporarily housed in nearby units,” Mnguni said.
The City of Tshwane received reports of flooding in other parts of Pretoria North, including Mabopane, where rescue and fire departments were also dispatched to assist.
Mnguni urged locals to exercise caution and vigilance during inclement weather. “Remain indoors and away from metal objects that could be struck by lightning, if possible. Avoid playing golf or fishing outside in the rain, as golf clubs and fishing poles could attract lightning. Avoid hiding under tall objects like solitary trees during thunderstorms.”
Mnguni advised drivers and pedestrians to exercise particular caution when roads are slippery or visibility is compromised. “If you notice rising water levels, move to higher ground. Avoid crossing flooded streams, and do not travel on bridges or roads in low-lying areas, which are especially prone to flooding.”
Mnguni stated that the emergency services division will continue to monitor weather forecasts and remain vigilant for any potential crises that may arise. “The South African Weather Service (Saws) and other reliable sources provide warnings and alerts, and residents are strongly encouraged to stay informed, monitor short-term weather forecasts, and promptly heed the advised safety precautions.”
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