Following an early surge in flu cases across the country health officials are highlighting the role of good hand hygiene in protecting against infection this winter • Also read: Five tips to keep babies and kids safe from flu World Hand Hygiene Day underscores the critical role of handwashing in curbing the spread of infectious diseases particularly during the colder months when illnesses like influenza and respiratory infections rise According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) the 2025 flu season began exceptionally early starting in the week of 24 March (week 13) making it the earliest onset in more than a decade as the 2024 season only began four weeks later Data from the NICD’s pneumonia surveillance programme also confirms that the most prevalent influenza strain currently in circulation is influenza A(H3N2) which accounts for 68% of lab-confirmed cases to date are transmitted through droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces making hand hygiene an essential barrier against infection The World Health Organisation (WHO) emphasises that proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective measures to prevent the spread of infection in healthcare settings and the community The marketing manager for Pharma Dynamics’ Scientific Division highlights the importance of hand hygiene in public health “Hand hygiene is a fundamental practice that significantly reduces the burden of infectious diseases reinforcing the habit of regular handwashing can lead to substantial public health benefits “Use clean running water and soap and scrub all parts of your hands – including the backs between your fingers and under the nails – for at least 20 seconds before rinsing and drying thoroughly,” Ingrid said The WHO’s 2025 campaign theme emphasises that while gloves are used in healthcare settings they are not a substitute for hand hygiene including using the correct techniques and handwashing at the right times are crucial for protecting both patients and healthcare workers Singels says public awareness campaigns and education are vital in promoting hand hygiene practices “Community engagement initiatives can lead to increased compliance and a reduction in the spread of infections communities can protect vulnerable populations and reduce the overall incidence of winter illnesses.” Given the early arrival of the flu season and the dominance of circulating strains like A(H3N2) health authorities are urging the public – especially high-risk individuals pregnant women and those with chronic conditions – to prioritise flu vaccination and seek medical care early if flu-like symptoms develop As the country prepares for the winter season emphasising the importance of hand hygiene is more crucial than ever “Through concerted efforts in education community engagement and adherence to proven hand hygiene practices the nation can mitigate the impact of winter illnesses and safeguard public health.” AVBOB celebrates a milestone by rewarding its members on a large scale JOHANNESBURG - A meteorologist has dismissed claims that a Tornado was the cause behind the storm that ripped through Randfontein on Wednesday The West Rand part of Gauteng was left to pick up the pieces after buildings houses and cars were left damaged as the result of the storm READ: Heavy storms rip through Randfontein Emergency services rushed to the scene to assist as residents dealt with the aftermath.  The SA Weather Service have issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms in Gauteng A fierce debate on whether was it a tornado or landspout has followed after the incident.  Annette Botha says this was the work of a landspout Home | Politics Residents of Randfontein, west of Johannesburg are hoping that Premier Panyaza Lesufi will outline plans to deal with service delivery challenges. For several months, residents have been struggling to get uninterrupted water supply, RDP housing and electricity among other challenges. Lesufi is expected to deliver his State of the Province Address (SOPA) tomorrow. These residents are hoping he will come to their aid. “We have been struggling to get access to normal supply of water since November, the roads have potholes and sewage is running on the streets in Randfontein. Since it is SOPA, my plea to the premier is to accelerate service delivery programs.” “Electricity is a problem; we struggle to get people from the municipality to come unblock the drains. We do not have a police station that is working in our ward.” Meanwhile, Gauteng Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Solly Msimanga has described Panyaza Lesufi as a Premier who shoots from the hip and deals with consequences afterwards. Briefing the media on Friday last week in what he termed the true State of the Province Address, Msimanga lambasted Lesufi for failing Gauteng residents with empty promises under the guise of a State of the Province Address. JOHANNESBURG - Thousands of residents in the Dan Tloome housing project in Randfontein are still grappling with ongoing water issues. The frustrated community has been without a consistent water supply since last December, leaving many feeling anxious and desperate for a solution. Rand Water shutdown supply to various neighbourhoods around Johannesburg, however, Randfontein which was not affected experienced a water outage during the same period. Residents of the housing project said that they became concerned when their water was not restored, following the three-day shutdown. Earlier in January, water was restored to the area, however, it had a blue taint and was switched off a few days later. Dan Tloome resident, Mamello Segale, said that the situation had become unbearable. "The corridors have started to stink and smell like sewage. The situation we are facing here is very bad, especially with the fact that schools have already opened, kids are struggling with water." Rand Water said that as far as they know, there are no issues in that area. Sections JOHANNESBURG - A Randfontein fashion designer is reeling from the devastating impact of a massive thunderstorm that destroyed his home and place of business who operated his tailoring business from his living room is one of hundreds of people displaced by a storm that ravaged Randfontein on Tuesday ALSO READ: 'You don't prepare for things like this': Designer recalls how Randfontein storm turned birthday joy into heartbreak The thunderstorm tore through the area, leaving dozens of people injured and some fighting for their lives in hospital.   As Gobi welcomed Eyewitness News into his home, four mannequins can be seen in his living room, displaying carefully crafted tuxedos.   The tuxedos have been ruined by dust and debris from a collapsed ceiling, and the garments he made for his clients can no longer be delivered.   For Gobi, this work is his livelihood and the thunderstorm that ravaged his business has left him uncertain about how long it will take to rebuild.   "My clients' stuff was destroyed - dresses. They got us a new space, but there is no electricity, so I don’t know how I’m going to do that."   Scratching his head in deep thought, the fashion designer is hoping the government will step in to help him rebuild following the thunderstorm. ActionSA in Gauteng is deeply disappointed by the gross mismanagement and lack of accountability surrounding the so-called “Montrose Mega Project” in Randfontein. Despite R11 billion of public funds being spent, this project now stands as a symbol of government failure, with incomplete houses, poor project management, decaying infrastructure, and escalating criminal activity. The oversight conducted on the 22nd of August 2024 by ActionSA, another on the 18th of September 2024 by NCOP and then again on the 29th of October 2024 by the Human Settlement Committee revealed the following shocking realities: In addition to the incompetence demonstrated at municipal and provincial levels, this failure shows empty promises, blame-shifting & utter disrespect for the billions of rands wasted on a project that was meant to improve communities and give thousands of our citizens a place to live. No progress and nothing is done to hold officials accountable for the misuse of public money. We cannot allow this R11 billion disaster to be swept under the rug while communities continue to suffer. ActionSA demands immediate action and transparency regarding this failed project. We implore the MEC for Human Development Honourable Tasneem Motara and MEC for Infrastructure Development Honourable Jacob Mamabolo to: Immediately share and present a comprehensive, clear and detailed infrastructure development plan for the required bulk services including water, electricity and proper sewerage. This project was not supposed to be started without bulk infrastructure. Without bulk infrastructure, it remains a white elephant. ActionSA demands a full investigation into the waste and fruitless expenditure of public funds and that those responsible be held accountable, whether in local or provincial governments. There must be consequence management for the incompetence that has led to this disaster. Security measures to address crime. Given the rise in criminal activity linked to the site, ActionSA calls for increased policing and security measures to remove illegal miners and restore safety to the area. In addition to being an infrastructure disaster, this project is a breach of public confidence and a waste of tax revenue that could have changed lives and supplied much-needed housing. Because of government mismanagement, the residents of Randfontein have been left to suffer, and ActionSA will not let their predicament go unnoticed. Our citizens deserve better, a sincere and accountable government, instead of blame-shifting to escape accountability. ActionSA will remain steadfast on its commitment to fight for accountability, transparency and service delivery at all government levels. File: Drops of water, raindrops on a window. JOHANNESBURG - A severe storm has ripped through Randfontein West of Johannesburg. This has caused structural damage to some buildings. Emergency services are assisting people on the ground. On Wednesday, the South African Weather Services issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms in Gauteng. Storms are also expected in Limpopo and Mpumalanga. JOHANNESBURG – The Gauteng Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Department has promised relief for Randfontein families affected by the recent storm On Wednesday, 24 people were injured, and at least 1,000 community members were affected by the storm that hit the area. Homes, churches and a shopping centre also suffered damage. COGTA MEC Jacob Mamabolo said that providing aid to the region had exposed their vulnerability. "The scenes of devastation and hardship witnessed in the aftermath of this tornado is a stark reminder of the impact of a natural disaster such as these and the far-reaching consequences it has on our vulnerable communities." The provincial disaster management centre said that community members would receive the necessary aid they needed to rebuild their damaged homes. JOHANNESBURG - Randfontein’s CPF said that several people were injured after a severe storm hit the area earlier on Wednesday The Community Policing Forum’s (CPF) Gavon Molefe said that those injured in the damaging storm were transported to local hospitals "Areas which have suffered the damage is Toekomsrus as well as Mphakathi Mall and Dreamfield Flats next to Mphakathi Mall." READ: Randfontein reportedly suffers heavy damage following storm The South African Weather Services said that hailfall was reported over the southern parts of Gauteng, with unofficial reports of a tornado. "With severe thunderstorm warnings issued over the southern parts of Gauteng, it is possible that a tornado may have occurred with the severe thunderstorms that were observed," said Lehohonolo Thobela of the South African Weather Service. 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Fix these mistakes in your next attempt — or appeal 420 Weed Day triggers national drug alarm–and you can be part of the solution South Africa appoints Mcebisi Jonas as new ambassador to the US NSFAS clarifies R13,800 accommodation payment error Randfontein residents are picking up the pieces after a devastating storm tore through the town this afternoon and fears of a possible tornado - this as emergency services are works hard to assist those affected For breaking, South African news and inspiring stories, visit NOWinSA Gauteng – a powerful storm ripped through Randfontein this afternoon leaving a trail of destruction in its wake and several injured Residents are grappling with the aftermath as emergency services work tirelessly to assess the damage and provide aid to those affected The areas of Toekomsrus and Mohlakeng appear to be the hardest hit Eyewitness accounts paint a grim picture of the storm’s impact described the storm’s path to the Randfontein Herald stating it originated near Greenfields Estate He reported seeing over 200 houses damaged “The wind was swirling,” recounted local shopkeeper “It was like nothing I’ve ever seen It happened so fast.” Dlamini sustained minor injuries from shattered glass but expressed her relief that no customers were present at the time “I saw the roof of my neighbour’s house just lift off and disappear,” a visibly shaken Thabo Moloi told SABC News I don’t know how we’re going to rebuild after this.” Moloi and his family escaped with minor injuries but their home suffered significant damage At least one child has been injured and rushed to a nearby hospital after being struck by falling debris The full extent of injuries is still being assessed as emergency responders continue to navigate the affected areas The South African Weather Service had issued a warning for severe thunderstorms in the area but the intensity of the storm seemingly caught many off guard whether a tornado or a particularly violent thunderstorm Local authorities are urging residents to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel as emergency crews work to clear debris and restore essential services Support and relief efforts are being mobilized with community centers opening their doors to provide shelter and assistance to those displaced by the storm As Randfontein begins the long road to recovery the community’s resilience and spirit of unity will be crucial in overcoming this devastating event Contact us: info@nowinsa.co.za A man who was allegedly trying to force his way into a house in Helikon Park stabbed three people before a security company’s reaction officers shot him Randfontein Herald reports that Mapogo A Mathamaga reaction officers police and emergency services responded to a distress call from a Helikon Villas resident at about 11:00 According to Mapogo operations manager Mac van Zyl a man armed with a knife had been trying to force his way into his sister’s home Van Zyl says when one of the occupants ran outside to ask a neighbour for help Van Zyl says the three victims and the suspect were transported to hospital with serious injuries Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal Read original story on www.citizen.co.za Home | South Africa A severe storm swept through Randfontein in Gauteng’s East Rand yesterday displacing approximately 190 families and injuring more than 20 people The affected areas include the Toekomsrus informal settlement Greenfields Estate and the Umphakathi Mall The injured received medical attention at nearby healthcare facilities Randfontein Executive Mayor William Matsheke confirmed that displaced families have been provided with food and temporary shelter he noted that some residents of Toekomsrus opted not to move to other shelter areas “We are working jointly with the Gauteng provincial government as well as the national Department of Human Settlement as the custodian of disaster management within the country We have stabilized the problem and we are continuously checking with other business people around the area on things they would be able to assist us with because people who are affected in Toekomsrus do not have insurance,” Matsheke said [WATCH] A mop-up operation is underway in Randfontein, west of Johannesburg. This is after a severe storm ripped through the area yesterday, causing structural damage to some buildings. Rand West Municipality Mayor William Matsheke provides more details pic.twitter.com/WFe5mpHyec — SABC News (@SABCNews) November 28, 2024 NATIONAL NEWS - A child was injured in a severe storm which hit Randfontein in the West Rand earlier today Randfontein Herald reports the severe storm swept through Toekomsrus and Mohlakeng this afternoon causing serious damage to properties and injuring the child stated the storm came from Greenfields Estate and then passed through Umphakati Mall before heading to Toekomsrus He mentioned that the child was hurt by a falling wall and added that more than 200 houses were wrecked It is the first time we have had something like this,” said Roberts chairperson of the Rand West Neighbourhood Watch Vox Weather believes it was a landspout and not a tornado but said the South African Weather Service (SAWS) will have to confirm this Landspouts and tornados are both rotating columns of air a landspout typically forms from the ground up and is part of a weaker often in the presence of a strong updraft or low-level wind shear organised storms capable of producing powerful tornadoes.” landspouts are usually weaker than tornadoes They tend to be shorter-lived and are not as intense as tornadoes Tornadoes are typically more violent and destructive capable of reaching higher intensities and larger sizes “A landspout can occasionally strengthen into a tornado landspouts remain weak and dissipate quickly it is typically only for a short period.” Lehlohonolo Thobela from the SAWS says the storm may have been a tornado “The videos we’ve been investigating do show an element of rotation and roofs We are yet to investigate and scale it to a certain level once the damage has been assessed.” This article has been amended since it was first publish to include commentary by the SAWS.  Article: Caxton Network News ‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’  JOHANNESBURG - Reports of heavy damage to infrastructure are coming out of Randfontein, following torrential downpours in Johannesburg. Reports say that Mohlakeng township in Randfontein has been severely affected by the storm. Videos supplied to EWN show extensive damage to an apartment block and mall in the area. Another video of a possible tornado has also surfaced online, which has yet to be verified. The South African Weather Service said they were still gathering information. The construction of Montrose Mega City kicked off in 2017 but was abandoned in November 2023 JOHANNESBURG - The Department of Human Settlements in Gauteng says it is taking legal action against a contractor who abandoned an R11 billion project Construction of the Montrose Mega City in Randfontein kicked off in 2017 Members of Parliament (MP)'s National Council of Provinces (NCOP) conducted an oversight visit to the site on Wednesday The project was spearheaded by SCM Development in 2017 to build a mixture of stand-alone RDP houses and multi-storey flats The department said performance issues with SCM Developments started in 2021 Director-General Phumzile Maseko-Seipobi said they terminated the contract in July this year "In terms of opening a criminal case (against the developer) our contracts stipulate the steps you must go through when there is poor performance non-performance and all kinds of things and that’s what we are following now." The department said it was close to appointing a security company to guard the site against vandalism [WATCH] Members of the NCOP representing Gauteng are conducting oversight visits to unfinished projects in the province.First up is the unfinished R11-billion Montrose Mega City Development in Randfontein. TCG pic.twitter.com/jymoPm943m predators rarely miss a chance to eliminate potential rivals Mark Whiley came close to witnessing this first-hand when a pack of wild dogs targeted a pair of lion cubs in the Kruger National Park According to a YouTube video by Latest Sightings Whiley followed the wild dogs’ journey on the S25 until they reached the junction with the S26 “Mark could make something out ahead of the pack but it was hard to see exactly what it was until they got closer “It turned out to be two lion cubs on the road and the wild dogs didn’t think twice about running to grab them Lions never miss an opportunity to eliminate a wild dog which makes lions one of their worst enemies This means that when wild dogs have the chance to grab a lion cub they certainly won’t miss it either,” the video’s description reads Randfontein Herald reports the severe storm swept through Toekomsrus and Mohlakeng this afternoon It is the first time we have had something like this,” said Roberts Vox Weather believes it was a landspout and not a tornado Tornado/storm over parts of Randfontein, West Rand. pic.twitter.com/HOjXu3Dnpb — Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) November 27, 2024 organised storms capable of producing powerful tornadoes.” — Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) November 27, 2024 “A landspout can occasionally strengthen into a tornado “The videos we’ve been investigating do show an element of rotation and roofs We are yet to investigate and scale it to a certain level once the damage has been assessed.” This article has been amended since it was first publish to include commentary by the SAWS Read original story on www.citizen.co.za