Severe storm ravages homes in Mpumalanga

Several houses and vehicles were seriously damaged by the storm in Lydenburg, Mpumalanga.

Many of the houses that were damaged have asbestos roofs and the residents are now blaming government for failing to keep its promise of eradicating asbestos roofs in the area.

Heavy rains continue to wreak havoc in various parts of Mpumalanga. The Thaba Chweu Municipality is currently assessing the extent of the damage caused by the heavy rain in Lydenburg over the weekend.

Roofs of some houses were left with holes and belongings of residents such beds and furniture damaged.

A number of vehicles, especially minibus taxis were also seriously damaged.

Some of the taxi owners are calling for help as their business is already struggling due to COVID-19.

“I have four vehicles and they were outside and all of them were damaged. I will see what to do because the other one does not have insurance,” says one taxi owner.

The Thaba Chweu Local Municipality Spokesperson, Themba Sibiya says after their assessment they would provide necessary assistance to the affected residents.

“We would like to call upon the community, especially those tonight might not have a place to sleep, to approach the disaster centre. We admit that the issue of asbestos roofing should get an urgent attention of the council to ensure that it is eradicated.”

A few weeks ago, about 200 houses and 14 schools were damaged by the storm in Nkomazi. Many people were injured after their houses collapsed.