O.R Tambo District Responds To Overnight Storm Impacts Across Multiple Municipalities

O.R. TAMBO DISTRICT RESPONDS TO OVERNIGHT STORM IMPACTS ACROSS MULTIPLE MUNICIPALITIES

 

The O.R. Tambo District Municipality confirms that heavy rainfall, strong winds and lightning affected several parts of the District last night. This remains a developing situation, with reports continuing to come in from various wards. Disaster response teams were activated immediately and are already on the ground conducting assessments and providing assistance.

At District level, the Myezo Main ORTDM building sustained roof damage on its southern and western sections, resulting in ceiling collapse in certain offices and rain damage to some files. The Communication Centre lines were also affected. Technical teams are attending to restore full functionality.

Across the District, reported power outages have affected various areas, including parts of King Sabata Dalindyebo and Nyandeni. In some locations, electricity supply was disconnected as a safety precaution after electric poles fell and live wires were exposed. Technical teams are assessing infrastructure damage to determine restoration timelines, and coordination with Eskom is underway where required.

King Sabata Dalindyebo has recorded several incidents, including fallen trees, flooding along Nelson Mandela Drive, electric poles down in Ngangelizwe and Southernwood, and damage to private property. In Stwayi, Njemla Senior Primary School has been reported as affected, with assessments ongoing. In Sitwayi, some community members were temporarily accommodated at the Community Hall as a precautionary safety measure.

In Kumkani Mhlontlo Local Municipality, Ward 25 in Nothanaza Village has reported that one household has been left homeless. In Ward 13, covering Empindweni and Sikhobeni, lightning strikes and wind-related incidents have also been reported. Disaster teams are conducting assessments and coordinating the necessary relief response.

In Nyandeni, preliminary reports indicate that Wards 12, 13 and 18 have experienced homes damaged or displaced structures (“imizi imkile”) as a result of the storm. Verification and impact assessment are currently underway.

Port St Johns has confirmed that Wards 8 and 13 are among the most affected in that municipality, with storm-related damage reported.

Regrettably, two injuries were reported in the Zimbane/Ntlekiseni area, where individuals were struck by roof sheets during the strong winds. Emergency services were immediately activated and responded to provide assistance. We are relieved to confirm that no fatalities have been reported at this stage.

The District Disaster Management Centre activated without delay. Disaster practitioners, fire services, community services, technical teams and relevant municipal departments are fully operational. Additional personnel have been deployed to reinforce response efforts in the most affected areas.

Flood-prone zones and high-risk areas continue to be monitored closely.

While the situation has presented operational pressures due to the spread of incidents across multiple municipalities, our focus remains firmly on community safety, rapid assessment, and coordinated support to affected households.

Residents are urged to avoid flooded roads, stay clear of fallen power lines, and report emergencies through official municipal channels.

The O.R. Tambo District Municipality remains committed to a responsive, caring and coordinated approach in protecting lives, supporting affected families, and restoring stability.

Further updates will be issued as verified information becomes available.