More than 800 families affected by Vaal tornado

Officials say it is the winds caused some of the worst destruction they’ve seen, with Baloyi saying people are now trying to piece together their lives. 

The South African Weather Service says a super cell thunderstorm roared through the Vaal community.

Baloyi says thousands of residents have been displaced and left without any shelter.

ALSO READ: Strong wind wreaks havoc in Vaal area

“I saw lots of despair, disbelieve but also hope from those that started rebuilding. There are those that just didn’t expect this to happen. I can’t believe and expect what is before my eyes but we will rebuild and reassure the families of our support.”

Baloyi says they are prioritising families severely affected by the storm.

 “The community leaders have already started doing a survey going door by door to access every situation. We going to every shack to see what the extent of the damage is. Therefore when we bring our team with building material and manpower, we will direct it to those most vulnerable and to repair it themselves.”