STORM LEAVES FOUR FAMILIES INDIGENT

HEIDELBERG. - Four families here have been left indigent after a severe storm accompanied by strong winds hit their homes on December 28, 2017.

Thandi Mdumbe (58) is one of the residents who were affected by the storm. Her husband died a couple of days before and she had to cope with damage to her home while arranging a funeral at the same time.

Mrs Kate Rakitla ( MMC: Community Services) from Lesedi Local Municipality visited the affected areas together with Mr Clement Masinge (fire chief) of Lesedi Fire and Rescue last week to assess the damage.

They are appealing to businesses who can assist in helping these families to fix their roofs. Mr Masinge stated that according to the Disaster Management Act, the damage caused by the storm was not severe enough to be classified as a disaster. In this case it was classified as an incident and therefore local government will not be able to assist.

“We are concerned about these families who now have to make due with make-shift structures which will not withstand the next heavy downpour or strong wind. I appeal to residents and businesses to come forward and help us in this regard,” Rakitla said.

The municipality at the time, provided the affected families with blankets and food parcels.

Anyone who can help with building materials to fix the corrugated iron roofs of four houses, can phone Mr Masinge at the fire station on 016 341 4327/3116.

Photos: Heidelberg Heraut