4 killed as heavy rain inflicts chaos in Free State

Heavy rainfall wreaked havoc in Bethlehem, Free State Province where at least four people lost their lives, while 29 people were rescued.

The continuous heavy rain spread over large parts of the central province and resulted in flooding, road closures, blockages and several accidents.

The province has been pounded by rain since last week, causing damage, injuries and loss of life.

Many roads across the province were waterlogged.

Unpacking the tragic accident that claimed four lives due to the heavy rain, Free State health department’s spokesperson, Mondli Mvambi, said the four deceased lost their lives in a car accident due to the poor visibility of the road.

“The incident happened on the R700, just off Soutpan, where a Mitsubishi vehicle hit a Land Cruiser from behind and the cause is suspected to be due to poor visibility during a storm and heavy downpours on the evening of Thursday, 10 November,” detailed Mvambi.

“It was further reported that two people had to be evacuated from their home near the river by emergency services. The progression of the heavy downpours remained under continuous observation and, as a result, 29 people were rescued,” says Mvambi.