Storm causes flooding, homes & buildings sustain wind damage in Pretoria

JOHANNESBURG - Hundreds of buildings, homes and vehicles have been damaged by a tornado in Montana, in the north of Pretoria.

Emergency services said roofs were blown off and trees uprooted when the storm ripped through the area on Tuesday night.

This comes amid a level 5 warning for disruptive rains by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

Tshwane EMS spokesperson, Lindsay Mnguni, said that people were evacuated after their homes were flooded.

"The residents had to be evacuated and sheltered temporarily in the neighbouring units, and our disaster management officials are on scene doing an assessment of the damage and how they can further assist the affected families."

With the downpours expected to persist throughout the week, Mnguni urged residents to be cautious.

"The emergency services department will continue to monitor the weather reports and remain on high alert for any related emergencies. Residents are equally and strongly urged and encouraged to stay informed and to monitor short-term weather forecasts and any warnings or alerts issued by the South African Weather Service and other credible sources, and to immediately follow the recommended safety tips."