By Staff Reporter
MOGAPENG – A cloud of sorrow hangs heavily over the Mogapeng community following the tragic death of a 17-year-old girl who was struck and killed by lightning last week.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, 9 December, when the teenager was allegedly on her way to fetch water. She was later identified as Chike Sebela, a Grade 12 learner at Bokgaga High School.
Chike was laid to rest on Sunday, 13 December, during an emotional funeral attended by her classmates, community members and local leaders, many of whom described her as a dedicated learner with a promising future.
A family member, who asked to remain anonymous, told Tzaneen Voice that the family is battling to come to terms with the loss.
“We were looking forward to seeing her pass matric and further her studies. It is painful and difficult to accept that she is gone in such disturbing and sudden circumstances,” said the relative.
Meanwhile,the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has since issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms in several parts of Limpopo, including Ba-Phalaborwa, Greater Giyani, Greater Letaba, Greater Tzaneen, Makhado, Molemole, Musina, Polokwane and Moletjie.
According to SAWS, affected areas may experience flooding of roads, excessive lightning, strong and damaging winds, as well as small hail.
Residents are urged to remain indoors where possible, avoid flooded roads and rivers, and exercise extreme caution during severe weather conditions.
