Potch Weekly WhatsApp Chatter & Service Update 20–27 November 2025

Over the past few days, various Potchefstroom-based WhatsApp groups have been actively used by residents and ward representatives to report, respond to, and discuss ongoing municipal challenges. The conversations captured real-time accounts of power outages, cable faults, road hazards, water leaks, animal rescues, and weather warnings. These interactions not only highlighted service delivery concerns but also demonstrated the important role local communication platforms continue to play in fostering public awareness, safety coordination, and neighbourhood responsiveness.

⚡ Power Outages and Cable Theft Across Suburbs

Numerous neighbourhoods in Potchefstroom experienced widespread and prolonged electricity outages during the past week. Silver Street, Mooivalleipark, Wilgeboom, MC Roode, Waterberry, Junction Mall, Chris Hani, Nieuwe Street, Borckenhagen, Phillips Avenue and surrounding areas all reported blackouts.

Feedback shared by residents across various WhatsApp groups indicated ongoing repair efforts, but many complained about unanswered calls to the municipal and disaster management centres. Several of the outages were linked to weather-related faults and suspected cable theft, with technicians seen working in multiple affected streets throughout the week. Repairs in some areas were delayed by severe weather conditions.

In Phillipslaan and Chris Hani, a confirmed incident of cable theft was reported on 27 November, contributing to outages and restoration delays. Officials advised residents to report issues directly to disaster management hotlines to assist with escalations.

🌧 Weather Alerts and Safety Warnings

A yellow Level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms was issued on 25 November, affecting both the North West and Free State provinces. Alerts warned of heavy rain, hail, strong winds, and possible flash flooding. WhatsApp group messages circulated practical safety tips, including clearing gutters, securing outdoor furniture, and avoiding flooded roads.

Residents also reported storm-related hazards in various streets, including a fallen tree at the Thabo Mbeki/Albert Luthuli intersection and water pooling in low-lying areas.

🛣 Road Incidents & Traffic Notices

Approved protest action occurred on 21 November in the Steve Biko and Meyer Street area, with notifications issued to help drivers avoid congestion. A truck breakdown at an intersection further compounded traffic issues that same day.

On 25 November, a motor vehicle accident on the N12 near Klerksdorp was reported, with authorities attending the scene. Other areas with temporary obstructions included roads near Ventersdorp, where rainfall caused temporary disruptions.

💧 Water Leaks and Supply Disruptions

Water infrastructure issues continued, with several groups discussing leaks and low pressure. A major leak in Maherry Street on 23 November drew community attention due to the volume of water flowing along the road. Additional complaints surfaced about weak water pressure in Baillie Park, where a leak in Pavey Street was later identified as a possible cause.

By 25 November, multiple reports of reduced water supply in parts of Smit Street, Suikerbos Street, and Rivier Street were circulating. Community members were added to WhatsApp groups dedicated to specific water issues, including a subgroup for Baillie Park.

🐾 Lost Pets & Animal Safety Alerts

Lost and roaming animals dominated discussions for several days. Reports of loose dogs in Aarbeilaan, Elandstraat, OR Tambo, and Govan Mbeki were shared frequently. In one case, a German Shepherd-type dog escaped near Louw Street Spar and was seen darting through traffic before being reunited with its owner. Another dog was picked up near Miederpark Spar and taken to Paws Haven.

A parrot was also reported missing in the Smit Street area after escaping during stormy conditions. Community members offered help to locate the pet, demonstrating ongoing support networks in place via the local WhatsApp groups.

🧾 Council Meetings & Delays

The scheduled municipal council meeting on 25 November was adjourned after some councillors failed to receive agenda documentation in time. Residents were notified that the meeting would resume the following week. Separate messages encouraged voters to update their registration details for the 2026 local elections, with walk-in assistance offered by ward representatives.

🗑 Refuse Removal & Public Services

On 25 November, delays in refuse removal services led to multiple queries. An official update confirmed that waste collection had been postponed to the following morning. Residents were asked to keep bins out for early collection.

📢 Community Petitions & Noise Complaints

Noise pollution and disturbances during festive seasons were raised again, with messages urging support for a public petition aimed at strengthening local enforcement of anti-noise regulations. A petition link was circulated, accompanied by messages calling for better compliance with existing bylaws and regulations.

Final Chat

Throughout the week, WhatsApp groups in Potchefstroom served as active platforms for rapid reporting, mutual aid, and local updates on outages, weather alerts, road closures, lost pets, and public service delays. From electricity faults to civic actions and storm damage, residents continue to depend on community-driven communication for real-time information and local coordination.