Strong Winds Damage Homes, Schools in Casteel
Casteel Residents of the Maboke/Casteel circuit, located outside Acornhoek under the Bohlabela District, are reeling from the devastating effects of a powerful windstorm that tore through the area on the night of 09 June 2025.
nnnnThe wind, described by locals as extremely aggressive and unsettling, began around 21:14 on 09 June evening and continued until the early hours of 03:30 on 10 June morning. The storm left a trail of destruction in its wake, damaging several houses and schools under the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality.
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According to affected residents, the storm was one of the worst weather events they have experienced. "It was terrifying. The wind sounded like a train rushing past. Roofs were flying, and we didn’t know if we would make it through the night," said one community member.
nnnnSeveral schools have reported varying degrees of damage. Institutions affected include:
nnnnBen W Mashego Secondary School
nnnnBen Matlushe High School
nnnnLekanang Primary School
nnnnM.O. Mashego Primary School
nnnnIn addition to structural damage to both homes and educational facilities, some areas also experienced electricity outages, adding to the residents’ challenges.
nnnnAuthorities have yet to confirm the full extent of the damage or whether any injuries were reported. However, school administrations and local government officials are expected to assess the situation and coordinate responses for immediate repairs and support to displaced families.
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Community leaders have called on the Mpumalanga Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and Department of Education to intervene and provide relief, particularly to affected learners who may now face interruptions in their schooling.
nnnnAs the community begins cleanup and recovery efforts, there is a plea for support from both government and non-governmental organisations to assist in rebuilding damaged homes and infrastructure.
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