Severe weather outbreak produces major storm damage
Almost 100 homes are wrecked by storm damage in and around Estcourt
A trail of damage is all that remains after the severe freak storm, which hit Estcourt last Thursday.
READ THIS: 16 families and counting … affected by severe thunderstorm
Just after 12am heavy rains pelted down, coupled with large hailstones, and strong winds, wreaking havoc in ward 10. Colita’s Gwala family reminisce on the night the storm touched down.
“My grandson usually sleeps with me, but that night he refused. It was almost as if he knew what was going to happen.
“I wondered why the room was so cold. The power had gone out and it was difficult to see what was going on, meanwhile my roof had been swept off. The damage was so bad, I sat up all night,” explained Mrs Gwala sadly.
The family of 13 had their groceries spoiled by the rain. School books, beds as well as blankets were soaked through. Upon the arrival of an Estcourt News reporter, Mrs Gwala had her hands and feet covered in mud as she attempted making a gutter to channel the water flow out of her yard.
“Each evening I begin to grow nervous not knowing what will happen next. My son has stuffed blankets between the roof and the wall to soak up some of the water that leaked in on Saturday night,” she said.
Mrs Gwala’s veranda, lounge and room were badly damaged, while rainwater also seeped into her cupboards. On Friday morning the Social Security Services Agency (SASSA) Estcourt Branch along with the Ward 10 Councillor Edith Lite, Department of Social Development, the Al-Imdaad Foundation and the local Disaster Department visited the family.
The Disaster Department observed the wreckage while SASSA generously donated food items. It was almost as if one was invading the Gwala family’s privacy as their home was exposed by Mother Nature.
Mrs Gwala pleads with anyone willing to assist in donating timber and roof sheeting as well as stationery to contact her on 072 574 8666. She further wished to sincerely thank SASSA for their contribution as well as Councillor Lite for her help.
At a residence in Dahlia Road a boundary wall collapsed; bringing down an electric pole and leaving live wires exposed on an electric fence.
The homeowner Mr Kanai said: “This is very scary and stressful because it is a huge safety hazard and I have tenants on my property.”
On Monday, the municipal community services, civil and electric departments, Councillor Lite and the Disaster Department were set to clear up and assist the affected families.
On Friday, 16 homes were affected by storm damage; this number has since grown to almost 100. The affected areas include Forderville, Rensburgdrift Hill and Colita.
“Most of the damages reported were burst windows and damaged garages,” informed Councillor Lite.
No injuries have been sustained after the unexpected freak storm.
ALSO SEE: Gaping potholes continue to plague Estcourt
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