In a harrowing event on the evening of 18 February 2025, a tornado struck the Montana area of Pretoria North, causing extensive damage to numerous buildings, vehicles, and properties.
The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department quickly mobilised its response teams, dispatching firefighters and officials from the Disaster Risk Management Section to assess the situation and provide assistance.
The emergency was initially reported as a flooding incident to the Emergency Communication Centre at approximately 18:00. In response, firefighting resources were dispatched from Innesdale, Wonderboom, and Rosslyn Fire Stations, which included a swift-water rescue unit, a rapid intervention unit, a video unit, and a district commander's unit.
Upon their arrival at the scene, emergency personnel discovered the magnitude of the tornado's impact. The storm had uprooted trees and stripped away corrugated iron roofs from various buildings and carports, particularly along Sefako Makgatho Drive.
One of the most severely affected locations was a residential complex on Veda Street near Enkeldoorn Street, where many of the upper floors experienced major damage. With external geysers and roof sheets torn loose by the fierce winds, residents found their units exposed to the elements as rainwater began to pour into their homes.
As the rain cascaded through the damaged roofs, water quickly infiltrated the top floors of the residential units, resulting in significant water damage. Emergency workers promptly evacuated the affected residents and offered temporary shelter in neighbouring units while damage assessments were carried out. Disaster Management officials remained on site to evaluate the extent of the destruction and determine the best course of action to assist those who had lost their homes.
The City of Tshwane also received reports of flooding incidents in other areas, including Mabopane, where additional fire and rescue units were dispatched to assist communities in distress. Fortunately, despite the extensive damage, no injuries were reported in connection with these incidents.
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