News24 | More than 30 schools damaged in Mpumalanga storms

Heavy rainfall causes severe floods in parts of Mpumalanga. (Deaan Vivier/Gallo Images/Foto24)

More than 30 schools were damaged when storms, which claimed four lives and left 40 people injured, lashed Mpumalanga on Sunday and Monday.

Deputy Minister of Basic Education Reginah Mhaule said a heavy storm in Bushbuckridge on Sunday evening had caused damage to multiple schools and disrupted schooling.

"Inclement weather has also threatened the administration of the National Senior Certificate examinations and disrupted schooling in more than 10 high schools that were severely damaged," Mhaule said.

"I would like to commend the swift action of the district officials who averted a crisis on Monday by protecting the matric examinations, which went on as planned, despite the damage. The classrooms of the lower grades which had not been affected were used in some schools but most of all, we appreciate the kind gesture of our churches who have offered their buildings to be used for exam purposes."

The severe weather continued on Monday, which resulted in damage to homes and infrastructure in areas such as Ximhungwe, Thulamahashe, Cottondale, Maripe, Shatale and Maboke.

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Mhaule added that power supply had been cut and some roads were not accessible.

"An assessment of the damage will be conducted, but it could be hampered by the persistent rain," said Mhaule.

"We will work with other government departments and local government continue to monitor the situation and support affected families. We convey our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and those who have lost their belongings."