News24 | Storm tears through Soweto, damaging school and historic Regina Mundi church

The Regina Mundi Catholic Church in Soweto, which was among the buildings whose roofs were blown off by the winds on Monday morning.

Gallo Images/Daily Sun/Jan Right

A severe storm has caused destruction in parts of Soweto, Johannesburg, blowing roofs off buildings and uprooting trees on Monday afternoon.

According to Johannesburg emergency services, the winds damaged the roofs of Reutlwile Secondary School as well as Regina Mundi Catholic Church, leaving the vicinity in a state of disarray.

Emergency medical services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said no injuries were reported.

“Our specialised teams remain on high alert overnight, which includes our search and rescue units and also our swift water rescue unit,” he said.

“They remain on standby to respond to any emergencies which might occur overnight.”

Johannesburg has experienced a severe heatwave over the weekend with temperatures peaking around 32°C.

READ | ‘Short-lived’ tornado hits KZN; more severe storms on the way

The South African Weather Service warned of partly cloudy and warm-to-hot conditions over the central and eastern parts of the country, with isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms possible.

Residents are encouraged to call the emergency management services command and control centre on 011 375 5911 for any life-threatening emergencies.

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