South Africa: 300 displaced by lakeside tornado

By Hassan Isilow

JOHANNESBURG

At least 50 people were injured and 300 displaced after their homes were destroyed when a tornado hit a lakeside area south of Johannesburg late Monday.

The tornado hit Vaal Marina, some 103 kilometers (64 miles) south of Johannesburg.

Private emergency medical company ER24 said 25 patients were treated on the scene for minor injuries, while 25 others were taken to hospital for further treatment.

Mmatshepo Chiloanem, spokesperson for the Midvaal mayor, told Anadolu Agency Tuesday that officials are assessing the extent of the damage.

She said some of the homes were partially damaged -- with roofs ripped off or other damage -- while others were completely destroyed.

“The municipality and local community leaders are assisting displaced residents with temporary shelter,” the municipality said in a statement.

A local resident told Anadolu Agency that electricity had been cut in the area after power lines were damaged.

South Africa has been experiencing heavy rains and winds for the past two weeks.