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Bushbuckridge Local Municipality continues to closely monitor the impact of ongoing torrential rains affecting various parts of Mpumalanga, while disaster management teams remain on high alert to ensure the safety of communities.
In neighbouring Thaba Chweu Local Municipality, no serious damage has been reported to date. However, the road between Graskop and Bushbuckridge has been closed as a safety precaution due to hazardous conditions caused by persistent rainfall.
Within Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, damage has been recorded at Thabokgolo Primary School, where strong winds blew away the roof of the school’s office block. In addition, 11 households were affected by the severe weather. The affected families have since received assistance, while damage assessments are still ongoing to determine the full extent of the impact.
Nkomazi Local Municipality has, so far, not reported any serious damage. Nevertheless, residents living near the Driekoppies Dam have been placed on alert after the dam reached 104 per cent capacity. Authorities have indicated that the opening of the sluice gates may be required later this evening, depending on water levels.
The City of Mbombela has also been affected by the heavy rains. In Ward 43, at the Louisville-Kamashayana informal settlement, 64 households have been provided with relief material. Damage assessments are continuing, with a detailed report expected on Monday. In Ward 29, Pienaar, approximately 150 houses have been affected, and disaster management teams are on the ground delivering relief and conducting assessments. Meanwhile, in Ward 18 at Entokozweni, about 18 houses have already been assessed, with further evaluations underway.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety warnings as heavy rainfall continues across the region.
