A surprising hailstorm wreaked havoc in parts of Gauteng, particularly in Fourways and Midrand, on Monday night, causing damage to several homes and vehicles.
Residents in the affected areas reported the onslaught of large hailstones from approximately 5 pm. The adverse weather conditions led to motorists being stranded on the N1 as heavy downpours further compounded the challenges.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued warnings of initially partly cloudy skies transitioning to cloudiness with isolated showers and thundershowers across most of Gauteng. SAWS predicts that the province will experience partly cloudy, warm conditions with isolated showers and thundershowers on Tuesday. In contrast, residents in the Cape are bracing themselves for continued hot weather.
Amidst the aftermath, Dialdirect Insurance has issued a cautionary message, particularly directed at those with solar panels, urging them to be vigilant during the hail season. Martin van Wyk, a spokesperson for Dialdirect, explained that depending on the storm’s severity and the size of the hailstones, solar cells can also sustain damage. Notably, spiked hailstones and those the size of ping-pong balls, golf balls, or tennis balls pose a threat to solar systems.
Van Wyk advised homeowners with solar panels to ensure that their building insurance covers storm-related damages as an insured peril. For proactive protection, Dialdirect recommends:
- Investing in reputable brands and high-quality panels, with Tier 1 panels being more resistant to hail damage.
- Inquiring with installers about adjusting the angle of panels to minimize the risk of hail damage.
- Conducting post-hailstorm inspections from a safe distance, avoiding climbing on roofs to check for damage.
Dialdirect also shared general tips for coping with hailstorms, both at home and on the road:
At home:
- Keep gutters clean to facilitate the channeling of ice and water away from the roof.
- Move outdoor equipment and furniture undercover if possible when heavy storms are forecasted.
- Check roof structures to ensure they can withstand the weight of hail, especially in the event of a blocked drainage system.
On the road:
- Avoid parking under trees due to the risk of falling branches and debris.
- Seek cover if caught in a hailstorm on the road, using a covered car park or petrol station.
- Exercise caution when pulling over, activate hazard lights, and stay in the sheltered spot until the storm passes.
- Refrain from driving through storms with poor visibility, slick roads, and the risk of aquaplaning through water and hail.
- Consider the potential fogging of car windows during hailstorms and ensure the car’s defogger is functional for optimal visibility.