Lightning in Gauteng kills two people during thunderstorms

At least two people have died after being struck by lightning during the severe thunderstorms which ravaged parts of the country on Monday, 5 October 2020.

A woman was killed by lightning in the late afternoon in Melville, Johannesburg.

Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) confirmed the news to The South African, saying the incident occurred at approximately 16h30.

“The City of Johannesburg’s Emergency Management Services (EMS) received a call yesterday afternoon about an incident that occurred in Melville. On arrival we found a middle-aged female who was declared dead at the scene”, said spokesperson Nana Radebe.

Meanwhile, less than half-an-hour later, a man – also died after being struck by lightning in Elandsfontein.

ER24 spokesperson Russel Meiring said he was declared dead at the scene.

A man, believed to be in his 30s, was struck-and-killed by lightning on a farm in Elandsfontein.

“ER24 paramedics arrived on the scene ay 16h55 to find the man lying motionless in the field, surrounded by a number of his colleagues,” Meiring said in a statement.

“Medics assessed the man and found that he had shown no signs of life. Unfortunately, nothing could be done for him, and he was declared dead”

‘Yellow thunderstorm warning’

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) had issued a “yellow thunderstorm warning” to Gauteng residents, urging them to be cautious.

“(Yellow Thunderstorm Warning) sign in effect for Gauteng till late evening (Monday 05 October 2020). Peak traffic hours will be affected with reduced driving visibility, flooding of low lying roads, susceptible areas and bridges, with hail possible,” the SAWS said at the time.

It seems residents could be in for more wet weather conditions as a forecaster said some flooding was expected in parts of Gauteng.

“We’re expecting plenty of rain today but no severe thunder storms. It’s going to be mild throughout the day, becoming a little heavier later in the afternoon,” Edward Engelbrecht said.