8 dead as storms batter Western Cape
Updated | By Jacaranda FM News
At least eight people have died amid the heavy storm battering the Western Cape since early this morning.
The Western Cape Disaster Management Centre says four people died as a result of a fire caused by a lightning strike in Kraaifontein.
The fifth fatality was a 60 year-old man, who died when his shack collapsed on him in Lavender Hill.
The Western Cape government’s James Brent-Styan says authorities are doing their utmost best to avoid further fatalities.
"We where hoping to avoid this as far as possible, but sadly you can never prepare for every event. We did what we could and our condolences go out to the families. We hope that we can limit any further fatalities or incidents," Styan says.
Styan says details on all the deaths are still sketchy.
ALSO READ- WATCH: Storm tears roof off popular Cape Town mall
Meanwhile, the City of Cape Town's Disaster Management spokesperson Charlotte Powell says emergency services are stretched to capacity.
"We are getting reports that roofs have been blown off and trees have been uprooted. Our emergency services are out in several areas clearing roadways and unblocking drains.”
Powell says in Hout Bay, some 700 structures have been affected by floods.
"In Macassar Village we also have structures affected by floods. Community halls and churches have been made available for residents who need relief in these areas.”
Show's Stories
-
"Is that my ear?" Barber pranks kid during haircut
Could you ever get tired of a good prank?
The Workzone with Alex Jay 1 day, 5 hours ago -
Toddler says he's allowed to bite people
A little boy answers "yes" when asked: "Are you allowed to bite people?"
The Workzone with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp 1 day, 5 hours ago