Tornado Wreaks Havoc In Pretoria As Emergency Teams Respond

A powerful tornado tore through Montana, Pretoria North, on Tuesday evening, causing widespread destruction to buildings, vehicles, and infrastructure. Emergency response teams from the City of Tshwane rushed to the scene to assist affected residents and assess the damage.

Buildings and Vehicles Damaged

The City of Tshwane’s Emergency Services Department confirmed that the tornado was initially reported as flooding to the Emergency Communication Centre (ECC) at around 6 PM. Firefighters and specialised rescue teams were immediately dispatched from Innesdale, Wonderboom, and Rosslyn fire stations.

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Upon arrival, emergency responders found significant damage, including uprooted trees and corrugated iron sheets ripped from buildings and carports along Sefako Makgatho Drive.

A residential complex in Veda Street near Enkeldoorn Street suffered extensive damage, particularly on its upper floors. External geysers and roofing materials were torn off, allowing rainwater to flood the apartments. Several residents were evacuated and provided temporary shelter in neighbouring units while disaster management officials assessed the situation.

Wider Impact and Emergency Response

Reports of flooding also emerged from Mabopane and Pretoria North, prompting additional emergency units to be deployed to those areas. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported so far.

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Emergency Services Department spokesperson Lindsay Zwelithini Mnguni urged residents to take precautions during severe weather. “Residents are strongly encouraged to monitor short-term weather forecasts and warnings issued by the South African Weather Service and other credible sources,” he stated.

Safety Precautions and Emergency Contacts

Authorities have provided safety guidelines for residents during extreme weather conditions:

• Stay indoors and avoid metal objects that may attract lightning.
• Refrain from outdoor activities such as fishing or golfing during storms.
• Avoid sheltering under isolated trees or tall objects during thunderstorms.
• Motorists and pedestrians should exercise caution on slippery roads with reduced visibility.
• Move to higher ground if rising water levels are observed.
• Avoid bridges and low-lying roads prone to flooding.

Residents in distress can report emergencies by calling 107 toll-free or 012 358 6300/6400.

Emergency teams remain on high alert, continuously monitoring weather conditions and responding to incidents as they unfold.

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