Free State student dies as lightning strikes near Theunissen

Provincial education spokesperson Howard Ndaba said the Department is saddened by the death of the Grade 9 student. Thoughts and prayers are also with the loved ones of the injured Grade 11 student who is being treated at Virginia Hospital.

Local religious leaders have been approached to comfort the school community and the local clinic will offer further support.

The MEC for Free State Education, Julia Maboya, expressed her condolences to the family of the deceased and wished the injured student a speedy recovery.

The incident follows an impact-based level 4 weather warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), warning residents of the Free State, North West and parts of the Northern Cape about heavy rains and strong storms.

The forecast called for strong winds, lightning, hail and the potential for flash flooding, road closures and infrastructure damage.

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