Nearly 100 households, several schools and public facilities have been affected by this week’s strong winds in Mpumalanga. Disaster Management personnel are on the ground assessing the extent of the damage following strong winds at various municipalities in Ehlanzeni District Municipality. On Monday, 09th June 2025, the district experienced strong winds that affected various municipalities in its jurisdiction. A preliminary report has confirmed that 19 houses in Nkomazi, 42 in the City of Mbombela, 29 in Bushbuckridge and 08 in Thaba Chweu Local Municipalities to have been damaged, mainly their roofs blown away.
The Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) wishes to inform the public that yesterday’s severe winds caused significant damage across parts of the City of Mbombela, particularly in the Pienaar area. The destructive winds resulted in damage to several houses and educational facilities, disrupting daily life and local infrastructure.
The Provincial Department of Education has reported damages to several schools. Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Management Center is supporting affected households with humanitarian items such as trampolines as temporary shelter. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, no fatalities have been reported and the Department of Education has confirmed that all students scheduled to write their June examinations were able to do so without any disruptions. Government has commended the resilience and dedication of both learners and educators during this challenging time.
CoGHSTA MEC, Mr. Speed Mashile said that the Disaster Management Team is currently conducting thorough assessments to determine the full extent of the damage caused by the strong winds. “We are working closely with relevant authorities and community partners to facilitate recovery efforts and provide assistance to affected residents” assured Mashilo. He further cited that the disaster management team will remain standby while monitoring the weather updates. The Department remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of communities. The Ehlanzeni District Municipality will continue to convene a Joint Operations Committee (JOC) meetings with the municipalities to produce comprehensive reports.
ISSUED BY THE COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTORATE
CO-OPERATING GOVERNANCE, HUMAN SETTLEMENTS AND TRADITIONAL AFFAIRS
CONTACT PERSON: FREDDY NGOBE – 013 766 6014 / 082 859 4630 / flngobe@mpg.gov.za