Torrential Western Cape weather claims one life, destroys over 26 schools

CAPE TOWN - Torrential weather that's been battering parts of the province has claimed at least one life.

Gift of the Givers says a man died after a tree fell on him in Paarl on Sunday 

The humanitarian aid organisation's Ali Sablay said this happened amid adverse weather conditions.

“A tree fell down on this person and unfortunately that person has passed on,” he said adding that they’re “currently assisting over 1,500 people with humanitarian aid in terms of meals, blankets and personal hygiene care items”.

The Western Cape government says over 26 schools have been damaged by strong winds that have battered parts of the province.

In some cases, schools in the Overberg, Helderberg and Cape Winelands districts had their roofs completely ripped off.

Learners in these areas may be at home for a few more days while repairs at affected schools take place.

According to a statement from the provincial Department of Education, its infrastructure teams are busy with repairs at the schools left damaged.

It added that it will have an update on whether schools in the Overberg, Helderberg and Cape Winelands district will remain closed.

Western Cape premier Alan Winde has reiterated that the decision to have learners stay home was a precautionary measure that officials will continue to review as weather updates come through.

Winde added that they're doing everything in their power to lessen the effect of adverse weather conditions on residents of the province.