On a quiet morning in Hanover Park, residents were hit by gale force winds that caused significant damage to properties and left three people injured. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) had issued a Yellow level two warning in anticipation of strong winds and large waves caused by a substantial cold front.
The Impact of the Winds
The affected streets, Athry Walk and Phillians Walk, were left in disarray as emergency services rushed to the scene. Six properties had their roofs blown off while nine more sustained substantial damage. Later assessments revealed that the number of impacted properties had risen to 20 formal houses and ten backyard dwellings.
Response Efforts
The City’s Disaster Management Centre quickly stepped in to coordinate services, providing assistance to affected communities and engaging in relief efforts through NGO partners. City teams worked tirelessly to secure large plastic sheeting to offer short-term protection against further rain damage. Gift of the Givers and Blue Ribbon provided aid to the storm’s victims, and Ward Councillor Antonio van der Rheede contributed to the response efforts.
Speculations of a Tornado
The severity of the incident has left the community shaken, with speculations of a mini tornado hitting Hanover Park having emerged. However, JP Smith, a local official, noted that these claims cannot be verified at this stage and require further investigation by the South African Weather Service. SAWS forecaster Henning Grobler emphasized the need for video and photographic evidence to confirm them.
Importance of Preparedness and Resilience
As the Hanover Park community comes together to assess the damage and rebuild, the incident highlights the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of extreme weather events. The consequences of this storm serve as a sobering reminder of the power of nature and the need for continued vigilance.
Weather-related Emergencies on the Rise
With weather-related emergencies on the rise, the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre has urged residents to report any incidents by dialing 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline. Reports of similar storm damage in Mamre have also been received, signaling that this powerful cold front may continue to leave a trail of destruction in its wake.
In conclusion, the gale force winds that hit Hanover Park caused significant damage to properties and left three people injured. The incident highlights the need for preparedness and resilience in the face of extreme weather events. While the prospect of a tornado remains unverified, the consequences of this storm serve as a reminder of the power of nature and the need for continued vigilance.
