Last Updated on 20th November 2020 9:54 AM by AfriWX
EF3 size Tornado strikes in Mpumalanga, South Africa
On Friday evening, 3 January 2020, severe thunderstorms developed over the Gert Sibande District of the Mpumalanga province of South Africa.
One of the thunderstorms developed into a supercell thunderstorm south-east of Ermelo, remaining over the area for approximately 40 minutes.
Storm Warning Issued
At 19:34 SAST, a severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the South African Weather Service for the area. Later in the evening images as well as video footage of the tornado in Panbult began to emerge on social media.
Video of the EF3 Tornado
Tornado Storm Damages
With the help of Mpumalanga Disaster Management and the Mkhondo Fire and Rescue, the South African Weather Service managed to contact the owner of Taaiboschspruit farm, Mr Kurt Paul, who suffered extensive damage due to this particular severe thunderstorm.
EF3 Tornado as per the Enhanced Fujita Scale
After gathering sufficient information on the extent of the damages inflicted on structures and vegetation on the property, the South African Weather Service can confirm an EF3 tornado (as determined in relation to the Enhanced Fujita (EF) scale) passed through the Taaiboschspruit farm.
According to Mr Paul, the houses of seven families were destroyed, as well as approximately 200 ha (hectares) of pine forest due to this storm.
South Africa’s History of Tornadoes
South Africa is certainly no stranger to tornadoes however they do seem to be on the increase. Have a look for yourself through our Complete History of Tornadoes in South Africa online database.
