Cyclone hits Randfontein with devastating damage

Cyclone hits Randfontein with devastating damage and injuries, but here’s the latest.

Severe weather caused damage on Gauteng’s West Rand; Eyewitnesses reported a possible tornado hitting areas such as Randfontein and Westonaria on Wednesday. Strong winds and storm conditions caused extensive damage to infrastructure, and the area is now facing the consequences of destruction, including structural damage to homes, shopping malls, and apartment complexes.

The Gauteng Provincial Joint Operations Committee on Wednesday confirmed reports of a possible cyclone causing significant damage in Randfontein. Although these reports have not yet been confirmed by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), eyewitness accounts, including videos of the aftermath, paint a bleak picture of the devastation.

“With the current storm passing over Gauteng and weather warnings remaining in force until 8pm today (Wednesday), we urge people to avoid unessential travel,” the Joint Operations Committee said.

Severe storm causes chaos in Gauteng

SAWS has issued a weather warning for severe storms affecting the region, with the potential for localized flooding and hail damage. Heavy rains caused flooding on sensitive roads and informal settlements. Additionally, the storm caused significant hail; This led to property damage and accidents due to slippery roads and poor visibility.

“Local flooding and damage to properties (formal and informal settlements) in informal settlements due to large amounts of small hail,” the weather service warned. Small vehicle accidents also occurred as roads became dangerous and lightning caused disruptions in municipal services.

Cyclone and storm hit Umphakathi Mall; 24 people were injured

The cyclone made landfall in Randfontein around 1:15 pm and hit Umphakathi Mall, Mohlakeng and Toekomsrus. At least 24 people were injured when the cyclone caused the ceiling of Boxer supermarket in Umphakathi Mall to collapse. The victims, mostly shoppers, suffered minor injuries and emergency services quickly transported them to clinics.

Rand West City mayor William Matsheke confirmed the damage to local businesses and homes. “The entire Umphakathi Mall was cordoned off and closed, where 24 people were taken to different clinics. Many shops were affected after hitting the ceiling of Boxer supermarket.”

Nearly 620 homes were either destroyed or affected in areas such as Greenfield and Toekomsrus; many families were left without shelter. Matsheke added: “Houses have been badly affected and people have no shelter. “We will carry these to our social facilities and halls.”

SAWS confirms Yellow Level 2 alert

The SA Weather Service has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe storms affecting central and southern parts of Gauteng, including Randfontein. Lehlohonolo Thobela, weather forecaster with SAWS, confirmed reports of large hail and potential tornado activity. “Observations show severe storms in the southern parts of Gauteng and areas around Randfontein,” Thobela said. “We have received reports of large amounts of hail being reported in the southern parts of the province. There is also the possibility of a tornado.”

Community and emergency response to ongoing damage

Rescue efforts continue after the hurricane and severe storm. Authorities and emergency teams are working to provide shelter to displaced families and repair critical infrastructure. Local emergency services are still assessing the extent of damage. Citizens are asked to be careful as storm warnings continue.

While weather warnings are still in effect, Gauteng remains on high alert for additional storm activity. more tornado potential.

Stay tuned South Africa As a cyclone hits Randfontein with devastating damage.

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