Buhlanyanga, Eastern Cape — Tragedy struck the Eastern Cape as severe weather claimed multiple lives, including that of 17-year-old matric pupil Lathitha Nako, who was fatally struck by lightning while sleeping at her home in Buhlanyanga.
The floods and storms have wreaked havoc across the region, with at least three fatalities reported. Two people died in Ward 12, Buhlanyanga, under the Ingquza Hill Local Municipality, while another was killed in Ward 28, Matheko, within the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality.
Over 260 households have been affected, with more than 160 families displaced from their homes. In addition to human casualties, communities have faced partial destruction of livestock, damage to road infrastructure, and interruptions to electricity supply.
The O.R. Tambo District Municipality confirmed that disaster response measures were immediately activated following the storm. In a statement on Sunday morning, the municipality emphasized the critical importance of restoring power, which supports water services, health facilities, and ongoing relief operations.
Mesuli Ngqondwana, Executive Mayor of the municipality, expressed deep concern for the affected families. “Our focus is to protect lives, restore dignity, and ensure that no family is left without support,” he said. “We are present with our communities and will continue working until stability is restored.”
Lathitha Nako, a matric student at Buhlenyana Secondary School, was sharing a bed with her sister when lightning struck their home. Her sudden death has left the local community grieving. Friends and teachers remembered her as a bright and ambitious young girl who was looking forward to completing her school year.
Authorities have urged residents to exercise extreme caution during adverse weather conditions, particularly during storms and lightning activity. Disaster management teams remain on high alert and are providing shelter, food, and essential services to displaced families.
The Eastern Cape has experienced a series of extreme weather events this season, with heavy rains and flooding causing widespread disruption. Local authorities continue to monitor rivers, dams, and vulnerable areas to prevent further loss of life and property.
Community members and volunteers have been actively assisting affected families, distributing relief supplies and providing temporary accommodations. Meanwhile, the municipality has called on residents to report damages and urgent needs so that aid can be prioritized.
As the province recovers, officials stress the importance of preparedness and timely response to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters in the future. Lathitha Nako’s untimely death serves as a somber reminder of the dangers posed by lightning and extreme weather, particularly in vulnerable rural communities.
The O.R. Tambo District Municipality has vowed to continue its relief and recovery operations until all affected residents are supported and essential services are fully restored.
About the Author
