Tshwane Tornado | Residents say it’s a miracle they’re alive

Residents of Montana Park in Pretoria are reeling after a devastating tornado tore through their community on Tuesday night, leaving a trail of destruction. 

The powerful storm ripped through the Sandpiper Complex, reducing ceilings to their struts and displacing at least 15 families.

A security guard at a neighbouring complex, Tebogo Temba, was among those who witnessed the devastation firsthand. 

“I was arriving for my night shift when the tornado struck,” she recalled.  

“I saw people running for cover, so I decided to opened the security office, and we all stood together, waiting out the rain,” she said.

Tebogo’s quick thinking and bravery helped save lives, with her colleagues celebrating it as heroic.

“It’s a miracle we’re all alive. I was scared as I’ve never seen a tornado before but I’m glad we made it out alive,” she added. 

Khanyisa Mamabolo, who has been staying at the affected complex for seven years now, also witnessed the destruction. 

“I was in my apartment when I heard the loud roar,” she said. “I looked out the window, and I saw my neighbours’ apartments being torn apart.”

Despite the trauma she witnessed, Khanyisa’s instincts kicked in, and she sprang into action, offering what comfort she could to her neighbours. 

“I made some hot tea and invited them into my apartment, because many of their geysers were torn apart or their power shut off,” she told YNews in frustration.

“We came together as a community, because many of us are far from home so as neighbours we are each others’ family,” she added emotionally.

The City of Tshwane has confirmed that the tornado was a result of severe thunderstorms in the area, and has pledged to provide support to those affected. 

The municipality has since deployed emergency services and disaster management teams to the area, also setting up temporary shelters for displaced residents.