A tornado touched down in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) on June 27, 2023, causing widespread damage. The tornado hit the town of Bergville, in the uMshwathi Local Municipality, and caused significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

27 June 2023

Published By Everything ZA Travel

The tornado was reportedly EF2 on the Enhanced Fujita scale, which means it had winds of up to 180 miles per hour. The tornado touched down at around 2:30 PM local time and lasted for about 10 minutes.

The tornado caused widespread damage in Bergville. Several homes were destroyed, and many others were damaged. Businesses were also damaged, and power lines were downed. The tornado also caused damage to roads and bridges.

There were no reports of deaths or serious injuries from the tornado. However, several people were treated for minor injuries.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that there is a possibility of more tornadoes in KZN in the coming days. The SAWS has advised people to be aware of the weather conditions and to take precautions if a tornado is spotted.

Here are some tips for staying safe during a tornado:

• If you see a tornado, take shelter immediately. The safest place to be is in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
• If you are in a car, pull over to the side of the road and get out of the car. Lie down in a ditch or other low-lying area.
• Do not try to outrun a tornado.
• Stay tuned to local radio or television for updates on the weather.

The KZN tornado is a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for extreme weather events. It is also a reminder of the importance of solidarity and compassion in the face of disaster.