As the country marks the first day of spring, the South African Weather Service has issued a level 1 yellow warning ahead of the predicted downpour this week. The thunderstorms are not only limited to the Mangaung area - which includes the Free State capital Bloemfontein - it is expected for much of central South Africa from 1 to 3 September. 

Mangaung Metro spokesperson, Qondile Khedama, says these thunderstorms are expected to become severe in places with hail, strong winds and possible lightning damage. 

Khedama urges residents to be hyper vigilant during this period, especially with regards to starting open fires and paraffin heaters.

In January 2020, several residents in the Mangaung Metro sustained injuries and were taken to hospital after the city experienced a severe thunderstorm and cloud burst. 

Khedama told local media outlets that residents were assisted by emergency medical services and transported to local hospitals. 

As a result of the heavy downpour, most of the main roads were flooded, as well as most of the houses in the Dinaweng area, resulting in many families being displaced and being relocated to community halls for temporary shelter.

OFM News