Around 12:12 this afternoon, a large tree collapsed onto an eastbound minibus taxi on the N17 just in front of the Nooitgedacht Agricultural Development Centre. Emergency crews were quickly on scene to assist those trapped inside the vehicle. While several adults and children sustained injuries, two passengers tragically lost their lives in the incident.
Paramedics treated the injured at the roadside before transferring them to nearby hospitals for further care. Traffic was briefly halted in both directions as tow trucks and municipal crews worked to remove the fallen tree and clear the roadway, restoring normal flow within the hour.
Weather reports indicate that gusts of up to 39 km/h have swept through the region in recent days. Such strong winds can strain root systems and weaken branches without obvious warning signs, increasing the risk of sudden tree failures along major routes.
Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution when parking or walking near mature trees and overhanging branches. If you notice any signs of instability—cracked limbs, leaning trunks or exposed roots—please report them immediately to the Msukaligwa Municipality’s emergency line. Choosing open, unobstructed areas for your vehicle could help prevent further tragedies.