"Disaster management teams were swift to respond to this incident which left large parts of the Watervaal Correctional Services facility damaged. The damage extends to 20 houses that were utilised by staff," the department said in a statement on Saturday.

Disaster management teams were still assessing the extent of the damage, but it was believed this was limited to Watervaal. So far no injuries had been reported.

“Our disaster management teams are on the ground providing relevant support to the affected families. This incident comes at a time when the province is mourning the loss of 23 lives due to weather-related incidents since October; this includes the tornado that struck New Hanover in the Midlands last week Tuesday,” Hlomuka said in the statement.

Inclement weather conditions were expected to continue across the province, with the South African Weather Service issuing a warning for severe thunderstorms for large parts of the province for Saturday, bringing the possibility of strong wind, hail, and heavy downpours in parts of uThukela, uMzinyathi, uMgungundlovu, Amajuba, iLembe, King Cetshwayo Zululand, and uMkhanyakude districts. 

Hlomuka warned residents to be vigilant, as these weather conditions posed a serious risk. “We are urging residents to be cautious, especially around low- lying areas or when crossing bridges. Before making any long journey, residents are urged to first check the weather forecast, as heavy rains pose a serious risk on our roads.”

Disaster management teams continued to be on high alert and were monitoring areas prone to weather-related incidents, the department said.

African News Agency