By 
BLOEMFONTEIN — The Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality has deployed emergency teams to Botshabelo and surrounding areas following a severe weather system characterized by destructive winds and hail.
According to preliminary assessments conducted by the municipality’s Disaster Management Unit, a fierce windstorm has left at least 16 households with extensive roof damage. The localized destruction is concentrated across several residential zones, including eight homes in K Section, seven in J Section, and one in C2 Section. Tlotlisang Primary School, located in Section C, was also identified among the affected properties.
In response to the crisis, local government and emergency services have launched a coordinated relief effort:
- Immediate Shelter Support: The Fire and Rescue Services Division has mobilized to provide plastic sheeting to affected residents as a temporary measure to protect exposed interiors from further elements.
- On-the-Ground Assessments: Disaster Management officials are currently conducting detailed, door-to-door assessments of the structural damage. Ward Councillors are assisting these teams to verify residential addresses and streamline support to families.
- Humanitarian Aid: The municipality has formally requested humanitarian assistance from the Red Cross to bolster ongoing relief operations.
- Long-Term Financial Relief: Upon completing the ongoing assessments, the municipality will submit a comprehensive report and beneficiary list to the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). This will facilitate the consideration of Disaster Relief Vouchers for qualifying households.
Adverse Weather Triggers Multiple Highway Collisions
Beyond structural damage, the sudden onset of hail and wet conditions created hazardous driving environments, culminating in multiple motor vehicle accidents around the region.
On the N1 highway at the Glen off-ramp, a bakkie lost control on the accumulated hail and collided with a bridge barrier. Another collision was recorded within the city at the intersection of Markgraaff and St Andrews Streets.
Furthermore, emergency services responded to an incident approximately 15 kilometers south of Bloemfontein on the N1, just past the Astron Garage, where two bakkies overturned. Authorities confirmed that one of the overturned vehicles belonged to the Provincial Traffic department.
Municipal Warning to Motorists and Residents
With weather conditions remaining volatile, municipal authorities have urged all road users to exercise extreme caution. Drivers are strongly advised to reduce their speed, significantly increase following distances, and maintain high alertness to navigate slippery surfaces and poor visibility safely.
Residents who experience weather-related emergencies or need to report further incidents are urged to contact the Disaster Control Centre immediately on 051 409 9600 or 051 406 6666.
