The South African Red Cross Society says it will compile a report from its assessment on the damage to several homes in Botshabelo, in the Free State, due to severe weather conditions.
Strong winds tore off the roofs of approximately 15 homes in the township, leaving several families affected.
The organisation says it will also give the report to the Education Department, following damage at the Tlotlisang Secondary School.
“We have been on the ground in Botshabelo conducting an assessment of the damages, and this will be followed by a verification, after which we will provide humanitarian support according to need,” says Free State manager for Red Cross Society, Claudia Mini.
Free State weather forecast for tomorrow: 06 June 2026. pic.twitter.com/HRbjtme2Vn
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) June 5, 2026
Residents say they cannot afford to repair the damage to their homes that was caused by a severe storm.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has meanwhile cautioned residents of possible damage to infrastructure, particularly in informal settlements.
“I just heard a loud noise that I cannot describe, and when I went to check, all I saw was the sky. I was so shocked I just started crying,” says a resident.
“The damage affected my children’s bedroom and my bedroom, and we just had to make a plan so we can sleep through the night,” says another resident.
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