Communities to Remain Alert During Severe Thunderstorms

The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department is urging residents to remain vigilant as severe thunderstorms hit the region. A Yellow Level 4 warning has been issued for Monday, 21 October 2024, affecting most of Gauteng, including the City of Tshwane.

The South African Weather Service initially issued a Yellow Level 2 warning on Saturday, 19 October, but the alert was upgraded to Level 4 on Monday. A second Yellow Level 2 warning has also been issued for Tuesday, 22 October, as severe weather conditions persist.

Emergency Response in Soshanguve

On Sunday, 20 October 2024, at around 17:00, the Tshwane Emergency Services responded to reports of a house damaged by the storm in Soshanguve Extension 10. Firefighting units from Rosslyn and Mabopane Fire Stations were dispatched, including a fire engine, ladder, foam tender, and a district commander’s unit. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered that the storm’s strong winds had damaged several houses. Disaster Risk Management teams were called in to assess the extent of the damage.

After assessment, it was found that in Soshanguve Extension 10, 54 people from 17 households were affected, and in Extension 19, 41 people from 10 households were impacted. In the Soshanguve Changing Spot Informal Settlement, about 800 residents from 200 shacks were affected. Damage varied from broken windows to severe cases where roofs had partially collapsed. Three people were injured and were treated by Gauteng Emergency Medical Services before being transported to Dr. George Mukhari Academic Hospital.

Relief Efforts

The City of Tshwane Emergency Services provided salvage sheets to cover damaged roofs and walls, especially aiding elderly residents. Nonprofit organizations also stepped in to assist affected communities with essential relief items.

Infrastructure damage was another challenge, with power lines and transformers impacted. At midnight on Sunday, a fire engine from Jabulani Fire Station was dispatched to Soshanguve Block PP2 to extinguish a fire caused by a transformer. The City’s Energy and Electricity Department was notified to isolate the power supply.

Storm Safety Tips

Severe thunderstorms pose multiple risks, including:

• Localized flooding in low-lying areas, informal settlements, and certain roads
• Minor to major vehicle accidents due to poor visibility and slippery conditions
• Power outages and service disruptions

The City urges residents to stay safe by following these tips:

• Stay indoors and away from metal objects if possible.
• Avoid seeking shelter under trees or tall objects.
• Don’t attempt to cross flooded roads, bridges, or swollen streams.
• Be aware that storms may bring a combination of hail, strong winds, heavy rain, or excessive lightning.

Residents are encouraged to monitor weather alerts and follow safety recommendations. For any emergencies, report incidents by calling the toll-free number 107, or alternatively 012 358 6300/6400.

Issued by the City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department