Severe Storms and Tornado Devastation Wreak Havoc Across South Africa

Gift of the Givers teams have mobilized to provide relief efforts in the aftermath of severe storms and tornadoes that swept through various regions in South Africa. The town of Tongaat in KwaZulu-Natal bore the brunt of the destruction, leaving over 1,200 people displaced as homes and schools lay in ruins.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS), in its assessment, confirmed that the unprecedented weather phenomenon included the occurrence of multiple tornadoes, affecting towns like Newcastle, Utrecht, Ballito, and Tongaat. Tragically, the severe weather claimed lives and caused significant material damage.

Kevin Rae, the chief forecaster for disaster risk reduction at SAWS, mentioned that the sudden spell of extreme weather, originating from an upper air cut-off low system, had led to severe storms, heavy rains, flooding, and heavy snowfall across regions like the Eastern Cape, including areas such as Uitenhage, Gqeberha, and East London.

Furthermore, the impact extended to KwaZulu-Natal, where the tornadoes wreaked havoc on communities, prompting widespread displacement and infrastructural damage. Gift of the Givers, a renowned humanitarian aid organization, swiftly responded to the crisis, providing support and assisting local authorities in conducting assessments.

In light of the ongoing weather risks, the SAWS issued warnings for isolated communities, especially in high-altitude areas like Elliot and Barkly East. The call to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel on hazardous roads and mountain passes remains crucial as the aftermath of the storms unfolds.