On October 29, 2024, severe storms swept through Mpumalanga Province, leaving a tragic trail of destruction in their wake. The violent weather, which struck Sunday evening, has claimed the lives of four individuals and resulted in injuries to more than 40 others. The hardest-hit area has been the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, where significant damage occurred in both residential spaces and educational institutions.
According to Elijah Mhlanga, spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education, over 30 schools sustained damage, raising concerns about the impending National Senior Certificate Examinations, commonly referred to as matric exams. With over 10 high schools reportedly affected, the storm's impact on students' education and examination schedules is profound.
In a heartfelt statement, Deputy Minister of Basic Education Dr. Reginah Mhaule expressed her condolences to the families of the deceased and commended the swift actions taken by local officials which allowed exams to proceed despite the chaos. Some lower-grade classrooms that remained undamaged were utilized for examinations, and local churches graciously offered their facilities as temporary classrooms to accommodate students during this challenging time. Dr. Mhaule also urged community members to remain vigilant, reporting any further damage and avoiding river crossings, as additional rain fell throughout Monday evening, exacerbating the situation.
βWe will work alongside other government departments to monitor the ongoing situation and support affected families,β Dr. Mhaule mentioned, emphasizing the collaborative effort needed in the face of adversity. She and her team have been particularly proactive in addressing the immediate needs of the community, extending their gratitude to the district officials who have worked tirelessly to mitigate what could have been an even greater crisis.
The storm's aftermath has not only disrupted schooling but also left many residents without power, obstructed access to local roads, and threatened ongoing assessments of the damage. Areas such as Ximhungwe, Thulamahashe, Cottondale, and others have reported numerous issues related to housing damage and accessibility.
In response to these severe weather conditions, the South African Weather Service had previously issued warnings for several provinces, including Mpumalanga and Limpopo, signaling heightened awareness among residents and local authorities.
As the community grapples with the recovery process, the call for solidarity and assistance remains paramount. The aftermath of the storm highlights the need for readiness and resilience in the face of unpredictable natural disasters. It's a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of unity in challenging times.
Our hearts go out to those affected by this tragic event, and we hope for a swift recovery for the region as efforts to support recovery continue in the wake of this devastating storm.
