The Bulletin News – Page 4

Unqualified audit does not conceal Govan Mbeki’s financial distress

News

Encee van Huyssteen

-

February 2, 2026

Unqualified audit does not conceal Govan Mbeki’s financial distress

The Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) warns that the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality’s unqualified audit opinion for 2024/25 should not be mistaken for financial stability or sound governance.

“An unqualified audit opinion merely indicates that the financial statements are technically acceptable; it does not conceal the scale of the municipality’s crisis,” said Aranda Nel-Buitendag Freedom Front Plus Councillor, Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, “The Auditor-General’s report and the mid-year Audit and Performance Committee report reveal serious financial distress, weak controls, widespread non-compliance and deteriorating service delivery.”

Key concerns:

Revenue collection is only 32%.
Unauthorised and irregular expenditure exceeds R1.2 billion for the year.
Debt to Eskom and the water board totals more than R6.6 billion combined.
The budget deficit has reached R733 million.
Creditor payments are being deferred, and the AG has declared the municipality not financially sustainable.

Service delivery is failing. Although the full infrastructure budget was spent, only one-third of planned targets were achieved. Large sums are being consumed by interest and penalties, providing no value to residents. A serious environmental irregularity at the Embalenhle Wastewater Treatment Works has already caused pollution-related damage, with no effective remediation underway.

Aranda Nel-Buitendag, FF Plus councillor

The mid-year performance report confirms poor delivery: targets are unmet and indicators fail to comply with basic performance principles. There is an absence of consequence management for financial misconduct.

The FF Plus rejects any portrayal of the municipality as healthy or compliant. The Council and municipal management must move beyond reporting and take decisive action: institute visible consequence management for financial transgressions, improve revenue collection, fully implement audit action plans, and deliver tangible improvements in service delivery.

“Govan Mbeki residents deserve more than polished reports — they deserve real, grassroots change. The Freedom Front Plus will continue to press for full accountability and for a municipality that serves the interests of its community,” concluded Aranda

Sasol AEL Public consultations/Publieke Konsultasie

-

January 28, 2026

0

Sasol AEL Public consultations/Publieke Konsultasie

GEMEENSKAP KENNISGEWING

Sasol bied Publieke Konsultasie Forums aan oor die kwaliteit van lug wat belyn is met Sasol se Atmosferiese Emissie-Lisensies op 10 en 11 Februarie 2026. Die publieke konsultasie forums gaan fokus op Sasol se resultate in terme van lug kwaliteit asook vordering op die lug kwaliteit verbeterings program.

U word genooi om hierdie forums by te woon op 10 en 11 Februarie 2026 te:

Lokaal	Adres	Datum	Tyd	Kontak
Sasol eMbalenhle Ontspannings Klub	Ingwe Rylaan nommer 2287, eMbalenhle	10 Februarie 2026	10:00 – 12:00	017 6851461
Sasol Secunda Ontspannings Klub	Nelson Mandela Rylaan, Secunda	10 Februarie 2026	14:00 – 16:00	0176100451
Difa Nkosi Community Hall	1095 Intumbane Rylaan, Lebohang Uitbreiding 9, Leandra	11 Februarie 2026	10:00 – 13:00	017 620 6232

Kontak Nonzwakazi Maguga by nonzwakazi.maguga@sasol.com of 066 248 6741 vir enige navrae en om u bywoning te bevestig.

COMMUNITY NOTICE

Sasol is hosting Public Consultation Forums regarding air quality related to Sasol’s Atmospheric Emission Licenses on February 10 and 11, 2026. The public consultation forums will focus on Sasol’s results concerning air quality as well as progress on the air quality improvement program.

You are invited to attend these forums on February 10 and 11, 2026, at:

Location	Address	Date	Time	Contact
Sasol eMbalenhle Recreation Club	Ingwe Road No. 2287, eMbalenhle	February 10, 2026	10:00 – 12:00	017 685 1461
Sasol Secunda Recreation Club	Nelson Mandela Road, Secunda	February 10, 2026	14:00 – 16:00	017 610 0451
Difa Nkosi Community Hall	1095 Intumbane Road, Lebohang Extension 9, Leandra	February 11, 2026	10:00 – 13:00	017 620 6232

Contact Nonzwakazi Maguga at nonzwakazi.maguga@sasol.com or 066 248 6741 for any inquiries and to confirm your attendance.

CALLS FOR CLARITY ON R280 MILLION INTENDED FOR MPUMALANGA FLOOD-AFFECTED FARMERS

News

Encee van Huyssteen

-

January 27, 2026

0

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mpumalanga expresses its heartfelt sympathy to the communities and farmers affected by the recent devastating floods throughout the province. However, serious concerns have been raised regarding the status and utilization of nearly R280 million allocated to assist farmers in the event of natural disasters.

In the 2025/26 financial year, Mpumalanga was allocated an additional R766.5 million through the Equitable Share. Of this amount, R351.2 million was specifically designated for disaster relief efforts, with R279.8 million earmarked for the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Land, Rural Development, and Agriculture through the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP). These funds were intended to support responses to the adverse effects of recent natural disasters, particularly those impacting the agricultural sector.

Following the declaration of a National Disaster on January 18, 2026, the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture subsequently requested R165 million for flood-affected farmers. This request seems inconsistent with the existence of a disaster-related allocation that reportedly includes R279.8 million under CASP. “Given that funds were available and specifically designated for disaster response, it is only reasonable for the public to inquire: What has happened to the R351.2 million allocated for disaster relief, particularly the R279.8 million intended to support farmers impacted by these disasters?” said Tersia Marshall, MPL – DA Spokesperson for Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs

Tersia Marshall, MPL – DA Spokesperson for Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs

In light of the January 2026 national disaster declaration, South Africans, particularly those in rural and farming communities, rightfully anticipated prompt and effective intervention. However, reports from farmers’ groups and affected stakeholders indicate that considerable additional funding is still being sought to address the same disaster-related impacts.

This situation necessitates immediate investigation through the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) accountability mechanisms, including transparent disclosures of expenditures, disbursement timelines, beneficiary support measures, and procurement decisions related to these disaster allocations.

The DA emphasizes that disaster response must be swift, effective, and focused on those most adversely affected, free from the influence of politically connected patronage networks. It must also be supported by verifiable reporting on spending and outcomes.

Disaster relief cannot become a conduit for unaccountable expenditures while flood victims and farmers remain without substantive support. Every rand allocated must be traceable, audited, and demonstrably linked to tangible recovery outcomes on the ground.

“The DA will raise urgent questions in the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature regarding the utilization of the additional Equitable Share allocation and demand an immediate public expenditure report detailing all disaster response spending connected to both provincial allocations and any intergovernmental disaster funding streams received by the province,” concluded Tersia Marshall

Sasol Highveld Photography Club Kicks Off 2026 with a Celebration of Photographic Excellence

News

Encee van Huyssteen

-

January 27, 2026

0

Sasol Highveld Photography Club Kicks Off 2026 with a Celebration of Photographic Excellence

The Sasol Highveld Photography Club held its eagerly anticipated January 2026 club meeting, setting a vibrant tone for the new year. The evening was a blend of celebration, planning, and knowledge sharing, highlighted by the recognition of 2025’s top photographers and a glimpse into exciting upcoming events. Johan Drotsky served as the esteemed guest judge for the evening.

The club showcased an impressive collection of 65 photographic entries for the night’s competition, spanning diverse categories: 10 in Nature, 3 in Photojournalism, 9 in Monochrome, 14 in Pictorial, 9 in Scapes, 8 in Nature – Birds Only, and 12 for the Set Subject.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to honouring the outstanding achievements of its members throughout 2025. The club celebrated the dedication and talent of its photographers, culminating in the announcement of the prestigious “Club Winners of the Year”:

2025 Club Winners Spotlight:

Junior Winner: Yolandi Geyser
Hostess Winner: Lorraine Botha
Senior Winner: Peter Winnan
Junior Set Subject Winner: Lorraine Botha
Senior Set Subject Winner: Sussa Pelser

Category winners from both junior and senior divisions were also recognised for their exceptional work across various genres, including Monochrome, Nature, Nature – Birds Only, Photojournalism, Pictorial, and Scapes.

The club also took time to acknowledge January birthdays, with well wishes extended to Piet Potgieter (Jan 3), Danie Smit (Jan 10), and Stian Griffin (Jan 15). Members were reminded to keep their Photovault profiles updated with their birth dates.

Beyond local club activities, the Sasol Highveld Photography Club highlighted its members’ successes in national competitions. Recent results from the 7th Vanderbijlparkse Fotografiese Vereniging Salon PDI (2026) and the 7th Rustenburg PDI National Salon PDI saw numerous “Accepted” photos and Certificates of Merit awarded to club members like Sussa Pelser, DNE Smit, Johan Viljoen, Yolandi Geyser, Pierre Jordaan, and Louis van der Walt, showcasing the club’s strong presence in the broader photographic community.

Looking ahead, the club outlined several upcoming opportunities for members to engage with the Photographic Society of South Africa (PSSA):

Upcoming PSSA Salons (Closing Dates in 2026):

5th Bethal Digital Salon PDI (January 17)
2nd Highway Salon PDI (February 07)
Ermelo Fotoklub 5th Digital Salon (February 21)
14th National AFO Salon (March 07)
PSSA 29th National Up-and-Coming Photo Competition (March 14)
SAVAS 4th Digital Salon (March 21)
10th PSSA NATIONAL SALON PDI (March 28)

Members were encouraged to participate in these salons to further hone their skills and gain national recognition.

The club also announced an upcoming photography event: the 46th Annual Sasol Secunda Marathon on Saturday, offering members a chance to capture dynamic action shots.

Finally, the 2026 meeting calendar with its monthly set subjects was unveiled, providing members with a clear creative roadmap for the year:

January: Holiday
February: Emotion
March: Perspective
April: Motion
May: Forms in Nature
June: Time
July: Funny
August: Night
September: Industrial
October: Mirror, mirror
November: Self-Portrait
December: Annual general meeting and braai!!!

The Sasol Highveld Photography Club looks forward to another year of fostering photographic talent, celebrating achievements, and providing engaging opportunities for its passionate members.

Here are the winning photographs for January

The best Set Subject entry is “Wave backflip” by DNE Smit

The Best Senior entry is “Garlic Display” by Leon Pelser

The Best Junior entry is “Aandete” by Edmund Hattingh

Here are the COM and GOLD certificates

Category – Nature – Birds Only

Inkunzi Cave Suikerbek 1 by Louis van der Walt

Category – Nature

Category – Pictorial

Upside Down Moss World by Louis van der Walt

H Baby Tiger – Too Warm 1 by Louis van der Walt

Category – Monochrome

H Leopard in Tree 2 – BW by Louis van der Walt

Verweer Maar Nie Vergete by Stian Griffin

Category – Monochrome

Saint Salvador cathedal altar by Hanli de Beer

Inkunzi Cave StarTrails 1 by Louis van der Walt

Road To Where In Canola Fields by Sussa Pelser

Catagory – Photojournalism

Category – Set Subject (Holiday)

Sint Salvador Kathedraal by Hanno de Beer

Dog and three year old by Lorraine Botha

Laatmiddag Danabaai Strand by Adri Kirsten

ALLEGATIONS REGARDING PROCUREMENT OF E-LEARNING DEVICES REFUTED

News

Encee van Huyssteen

-

January 26, 2026

0

ALLEGATIONS REGARDING PROCUREMENT OF E-LEARNING DEVICES REFUTED

The Mpumalanga Department of Education notes with concern the article published by City Press and News24 regarding the procurement of laptops and tablets for learners.

The Department wishes to place the correct facts on record and dispel misleading allegations of wastage and irregular procurement.

The Ubuhlebuzile E-Learning Programme was introduced in 2022 as a well thought and phased intervention to enhance teaching and learning throughout the Province.

In 2022, the Department procured 64 000 tablets for Grade 12 learners under a three-year contract valued at R224 million, including a three-year warranty. The procurement was conducted through a SITA contract, with Bongani Rainmaker Limited (BRL) appointed as the supplier, in full compliance with applicable government procurement prescripts.

In 2025, the Department replaced the 2022 devices with 60 000 Packard Bell tablets valued at R232 million, inclusive of a three-year warranty.

These tablets were successfully distributed to Grade 12 learners in quintile 1 to 3 schools in 2025, and the Department is not aware of any verified reports of non-functionality.

The Department attributes the improved Grade 12 performance partly to the effective utilisation of e-learning and teaching devices.

The significant improvement from 79% in 2023 to 86. 55% in 2025 is also linked to the maturing of the e-learning programme introduced in 2022.

The allegation that the Packard Bell tablets constitute wastage is completely untrue and misplaced.

As part of the Department’s e-learning strategy, the 2025 Grade 12 tablets have been retrieved, formatted, and reloaded with updated content.

These devices will be re-issued to the 2026 Grade 12 cohort, ensuring cost efficiency and sustainability.

The Department has further placed an order for 70 000 Windows-based tablet notebooks to be issued to Grade 10 learners in 2026.

The cost of these devices is R330 million, not R600 million as alleged by the City Press.

The strategy is to issue content loaded devices to Grade 10 learners who will retain them through to Grade 12, thereby reducing future costs related to retrieval, redistribution, and logistics.Content to these devices will henceforth be updated remotely, further improving efficiency.

The procurement was facilitated through BRL, in terms of a contract that allows BRL to source devices based on Department-approved specifications, manage procurement, load educational content, and oversee distribution to schools.

The Department funds the programme through a dedicated e-learning allocation, supplemented by the Learning and Teaching Support Material (LTSM) budget, as the devices form an integral part of e-learning delivery.

For the 2025/26 financial year, the e-learning budget amounted to R717 million to cover both grade 10 and 12 learners and is allocated as follows:

R312 million for Grade 12 tablets, including e-content and the distribution to schools.

The remaining R279 million, augmented by the LTSM budget, contributed to the procurement of 70 000 Grade 10 devices, with a total project value of R393 million, inclusive of devices, e-content, and distribution

The Department reiterates that all procurement processes were lawful, strategic, and aligned to improving learner outcomes.

Claims of wastage, inflated costs, or non-functional devices are factually incorrect and misleading.

The Department remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the effective use of technology to advance quality education for all learners through out the Province.

DA demands full forensic report after HOD escapes dismissal in Mpumalanga laptop scandal

News

Encee van Huyssteen

-

January 16, 2026

0

DA demands full forensic report after HOD escapes dismissal in Mpumalanga laptop scandal

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mpumalanga demands full transparency following the return to work of the suspended Head of Department (HOD) for Education, Ms Lucy Moyane, after she received only a written warning for her role in the controversial procurement of 22 laptops.

Ms Lucy Moyane, Head of Department (HOD) for Education

While the DA notes that the disciplinary process has been finalised, serious questions remain about how conduct involving millions of rand in irregular expenditure resulted in such a lenient sanction.

“The DA will formally write to the Premier’s Office requesting the full Forensic Investigation Report, as well as the minutes of the disciplinary hearing that led to the decision to issue a written warning instead of dismissal,” said Annerie Weber, MPL – DA Spokesperson on Education, Mpumalanga Province

Annerie Weber MPL DA Spokesperson on Education Mpumalanga Province

In May last year, Premier Mandla Ndlovu suspended HOD Moyane and other senior officials in the Department of Education following a forensic investigation that uncovered gross procurement irregularities and alleged dishonesty linked to the laptop scandal that rocked Mpumalanga.

Ms Moyane was implicated in the procurement of 22 laptops that cost the department more than R2 million, at approximately R92 000 per laptop. She was also implicated in a separate scandal involving the alleged approval of over R2.1 million for the refurbishment of a guardhouse measuring less than three metres at the Department’s Ehlanzeni District offices in KaNyamazane, outside Mbombela.

On Thursday this week, Premier Ndlovu’s Office confirmed that Ms Moyane will return to work on 19 January 2026. The Premier stated that the disciplinary process found her guilty only of negligence, specifically for ignoring recommendations from the Bid Adjudication Committee (BAC), which ultimately led to the awarding of the laptop contract to BoTau Technologies.

According to the Premier, the chairperson of the disciplinary hearing recommended a written warning as an appropriate sanction. He further indicated that the Provincial Government has recovered 80% (R685 712) of the R855 712 claimed back from BoTau Technologies for the irregular laptop payment, with the outstanding R177 000 expected to be repaid by the end of January 2026.

The DA calls on Premier Ndlovu to provide a full update on the investigation into the alleged R2.1 million guardhouse refurbishment, as this matter appears to remain unresolved.

“We will also follow up at the end of January to verify whether the outstanding R177 000 has indeed been repaid, as stated by the Premier,” said Annerie Weber, MPL – DA Spokesperson on Education, Mpumalanga Province, “The DA will continue to conduct oversight to ensure that this level of negligence does not recur in any department or municipality. Consequence management must be a priority if government is to demonstrate accountability.”

Finally, the DA will pursue updates on the ongoing disciplinary processes against other departmental officials implicated in these matters. “We further demand action against officials who resigned before disciplinary hearings could be concluded. Public officials must not be allowed to evade accountability by resigning.”

Sasol Congratulates Class of 2025

Encee van Huyssteen

-

January 13, 2026

0

Sasol congratulates all the matriculants as they prepare for the next big step in their lives.

Visit the Sasol website https://www.sasolbursaries.com/welcome/ for different bursary opportunities that will open up during the year.

South African National Blood Service (SANBS) encourages New Year donations as blood stocks sit below optimal levels

Encee van Huyssteen

-

January 12, 2026

0

South African National Blood Service (SANBS) encourages New Year donations as blood stocks sit below optimal levels

As South Africans settle into the new year, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) would like to warmly welcome everyone back and express appreciation to all donors for their continued generosity. Your commitment throughout the year helps save countless lives, and SANBS remains grateful for every person who takes the time to donate.

As the new year begins, SANBS is raising awareness about a familiar seasonal pattern, a dip in national blood collections during and immediately after the festive season. While this is expected, rebuilding healthy stock levels early in the year is essential to ensure the continuous availability of blood products for patients who depend on them.

While many households return to normal rhythm, thousands of patients across the country begin 2026 with a very different hope. Their new year is not defined by goals or celebration, but by the quiet wish for strength to return, for treatments to work, and for the simple, life-giving gift of blood to reach them in time.

Behind current blood stock levels are real people; mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and children — receiving treatment in hospitals every day. Their recovery, and in some cases survival, depends on the continued availability of donated blood.

Why Blood Stocks Drop in January?

There are several factors contributing to blood stocks dropping in January, and largely impacting on SANBS’ reliance on organised blood drives, such as:

Holiday travel and movement

Donors are often away from their regular donation centres during December, leading to fewer visits.

Limited workplace and campus drives

Workplaces, schools and universities and key collection points close or operate on reduced

schedules over the festive season.

Meeting demand during the festive period with reduced donations. Emergency medical care, childbirth and the ongoin #JusticeForTheVictim #SchoemansdalMurder #CrimeInvestigation #HelpUsSolveThis #CommunitySafety #PoliceAppeal #FindTheTruth #ReportCrime #ConfidentialTip #LendYourVoiceg treatment of chronic conditions continue year-round, placing sustained pressure on available blood supplies.
Disrupted donor routines

Year-end events, travel and family commitments can cause regular donors to miss their usual donations schedule, creating a visible gap in blood collections by January.

SANBS is encouraging O and B blood group donors who are due for donation to donate as these groups contribute significantly to the stability of the national blood supply:

O negative is the universal blood type used in emergencies.

Group B contributes significantly to maintaining balanced stock for specific patient groups. However, SANBS emphasises that all blood groups are welcome and needed.

“We appreciate every South African who donates blood, and we want to start the year by saying thank you,”says Thandi Mosupye, Senior Manager: Marketing, Communication and Brand at SANBS.

“January is a challenging month for collections, but it is also an opportunity. If donors, especially those with O and B blood groups visit a donor centre early in the year, we can stabilise the national blood supply quickly and ensure hospitals continue caring for patients without interruption. We encourage all eligible donors to make time to give the gift of life.”

SANBS invites all eligible donors to make a blood donation at their nearest donor centre or mobile drive. A single donation takes only minutes and can save up to three lives, to support patients in need.

“Whether you are an O, A, B or AB donor your contribution matters, and we welcome you,” adds Mosupye.

Who Can Donate?

First-time donors must be between 16 and 75 years old.
Donors must weigh at least 50 kg (55 kg for platelet donations).
Donors should be in good health, lead a low-risk lifestyle, and consider their blood safe for transfusion.
Donors should have eaten within four hours before donating.
Whole blood may not have been donated in the last 56 days, or platelets/plasma in the last 14 days.

For more information or to find your nearest donor centre, please contact the SANBS call centre on 0800 11 9031 or visit the SANBS website.

WARNING FOR KRUGER NATIONAL PARK VISITORS: PREDICTED RAINFALL AND SAFETY ADVISORY

News

Encee van Huyssteen

-

January 9, 2026

0

WARNING FOR KRUGER NATIONAL PARK VISITORS: PREDICTED RAINFALL AND SAFETY ADVISORY

The Kruger National Park (KNP) Management would like to alert all visitors planning to arrive at the park this weekend to be mindful of the predicted rainfall across the region.

According to the South African Weather Services (SAWS), significant rain showers are expected to affect both Mpumalanga and Limpopo Provinces over the coming days, including the Kruger National Park area. Visitors are urged to exercise extra caution, particularly with the weather forecast showing heavy downpours starting this weekend and continuing into the week.

Weather Forecast:

Mpumalanga & Limpopo: The SA Weather Service has issued a warning for heavy rainfall across these regions, with up to 50mm of rain expected in some areas. Thunderstorms and localized flooding are also possible, particularly on Saturday, January 10 through to Monday, January 12.

Kruger National Park: Rain is expected to begin on the western side of the park, with the eastern sections seeing rainfall later in the weekend. The wet weather conditions are likely to affect travel within the park.

Safety Advice for Visitors:

In light of the expected weather, Kruger National Park officials urge all guests to take the following precautions to ensure their safety during their visit:

Avoid Low-Lying Areas: Flooding may occur in low-lying regions, including riverbeds and floodplains, which could lead to dangerous conditions for visitors.
Be Cautious on Gravel Roads: Gravel roads may become slippery and treacherous during heavy rainfall. Visitors should take extreme care when navigating these areas, and where possible, avoid travelling on gravel roads during the peak of the rain.
Monitor Weather Updates: The park’s management recommends keeping up to date with the latest weather forecasts and warnings from the South African Weather Service and the Kruger National Park’s official communication channels.
Travel Early: Plan to leave earlier in the day when possible, to avoid being caught in adverse conditions after dark. If rain is predicted, aim to return to accommodation before the onset of heavier showers.
Emergency Preparedness: Ensure that your vehicle is in good working condition, with an adequate supply of water, food, and a fully charged phone. In case of emergencies, the park’s rangers are available for assistance.

Visitor Experience while there is rainfall will undoubtedly add a fresh dimension to the park’s already lush landscape, it is important that visitors remain vigilant and follow park guidelines to enjoy their stay safely.

The Kruger National Park is committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, and we urge everyone to consider these weather warnings as part of their trip planning. We are grateful for your understanding and cooperation during this time.

For more information and to stay updated, visitors can check the official Kruger National Park website or contact the park’s reception for real-time alerts.

The Silent Threat from Above: Understanding and Avoiding Lightning Dangers

Encee van Huyssteen

-

January 9, 2026

0

The Silent Threat from Above: Understanding and Avoiding Lightning Dangers

Recent incidents, such as those reported in Majaneng, Gauteng, serve as a stark reminder of the profound danger lightning poses, especially in regions like the eastern half of South Africa, which is recognized as one of the most lightning-prone areas globally. Understanding the science behind lightning and taking appropriate precautions can significantly reduce the risk of injury or fatality.

How Lightning Forms: A Brief Overview

Lightning is a dramatic natural electrical discharge that occurs during thunderstorms. It begins with strong updrafts and downdrafts within storm clouds, causing water droplets and ice particles to collide. These collisions lead to a separation of electrical charges: positive charges accumulate at the top of the cloud, and negative charges gather at the base. When the electrical potential difference becomes too great, an electrical discharge — lightning — occurs, either within the cloud or between the cloud and the ground.

The Immense Dangers of Lightning Strikes

Lightning is not merely a flash of light; it’s an incredibly powerful natural phenomenon with devastating potential:

Extreme Energy and Heat: A single lightning strike releases an enormous amount of energy, heating the air in its path to approximately 30,000 °C – five times hotter than the surface of the sun. The peak electrical currents can reach around 30,000 amperes.
Devastating Impact on Humans:
- Not Just Direct Hits: People do not need to be directly struck to suffer harm. Injuries commonly occur through:
  - Ground Current: The leading cause of lightning-related injuries in South Africa. When lightning strikes the ground, electricity spreads outward through the earth, affecting anyone in its path.
  - Side Flashes: When lightning strikes a nearby object (like a tree or pole) and a portion of the current jumps to a person.
  - Contact Strikes: Touching conductive materials (e.g., metal fences) that have been energized by a lightning strike.
- Physiological Effects: Even an indirect exposure to lightning’s immense electrical pulse can interrupt cardiac rhythm, cause severe burns, damage the nervous system and internal organs, and often result in fatality.
Increased Risk in Open Spaces: Gatherings in open spaces significantly heighten the risk of multiple injuries during a thunderstorm. Factors contributing to this include standing close together, the presence of tall objects or temporary structures, metal equipment, elevated terrain, and delays in seeking proper shelter. Critically, temporary shelters like tents and gazebos offer no adequate protection against lightning.

Protecting Yourself: Essential Precautions During Thunderstorms

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) urges the public to take lightning warnings seriously. Your safety is paramount, and proactive measures can save lives.

Heed the Warnings: “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!”
- If you hear thunder, it means lightning is close enough to strike you. Do not wait for rain or for the lightning to be visible.
- Immediately cease all outdoor activities.
Seek Safe Shelter:
- Enclosed Buildings: The safest place is a fully enclosed building with wiring and plumbing that can safely conduct electrical current to the ground.
- Hard-Topped Vehicles: Get inside a car, truck, or van with closed windows. The metal frame of the vehicle acts as a Faraday cage, diverting lightning around the occupants. Do NOT touch metal parts inside the vehicle.
Avoid Dangerous Locations and Objects:
- Open Areas: Stay away from open fields, hilltops, and elevated terrain.
- Tall Objects: Avoid standing near tall trees, utility poles, or other isolated tall structures.
- Water Bodies: Get out of and away from lakes, ponds, pools, and other water bodies immediately. Water conducts electricity.
- Metal Objects: Do not touch metal fences, gates, bleachers, or equipment.
- Temporary Structures: Tents, gazebos, and bus stops offer no protection.
If No Safe Shelter is Available:
- If caught outdoors with no immediate access to safe shelter, spread out from others.
- Crouch low to the ground with your feet together, touching the ground with as little surface area as possible. Minimize contact with the ground; avoid lying flat. This position helps reduce the impact of ground current.

Post-Storm Safety:
- Wait at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder before resuming outdoor activities. Lightning can strike from many miles away, even when the storm appears to have passed.
Assisting Lightning Strike Victims:
- It is SAFE to touch a lightning strike victim. They do not carry an electrical charge.
- Call for Help: Immediately contact emergency services (e.g., 10177 in South Africa).
- Administer CPR: If trained, begin CPR immediately. Lightning strikes can cause cardiac arrest.
Utilize Early Warning Systems:
- The SAWS offers a buffer zone lightning alert service, providing advance warnings of lightning activity via email, indicating anticipated start and end times. This service (info4@weathersa.co.za) can be crucial for event organizers and those in high-risk areas.

Lightning-related injuries and fatalities are largely preventable through heightened awareness, preparedness, and timely action. Communities, event organizers, schools, and workplaces are strongly encouraged to prioritize lightning safety and stay informed through official weather alerts from the South African Weather Service.