The prevailing cold, rainy and wet conditions are expected to continue until Saturday 28, with a little reprieve on Sunday and Monday, that is according to the South African Weather Service (SAWS). And more rain is expected from Tuesday.
Meanwhile, operations are underway to save and evacuate flooded families across the Cape Town Metro.
Earlier today (Thursday 26 June), the City’s Disaster Risk Management (DRM) announced that several non-government organisations (NGOs) have stepped in to provide help following the relentless downpours in the past 36 hours.
Sonica Lategan, DRM spokesperson, explained that the Ashraful Aid is rendering help in Gugulethu, specifically the Waterfront and Phola Park areas while the Mustadafin Foundation works tirelessly in Valhalla Park.
“Meals on Wheels and Blue Ribbon Bakery have also come on board, and the Community Chest will deliver blankets to affected communities from tomorrow (Friday 27 June). Assessments are ongoing of affected areas while relevant City departments continue their efforts to address service-related impacts from the inclement weather,” she said.
In a press statement, the SAWS issued a warning to residents and motorists.
“Wet and slippery roads may result in dangerous driving conditions. Motorists should exercise caution and adhere to safety measures,” explained SAWS. “Strong and gusty winds over the interior may cause localised damage to structures and uproot trees. Cold to very cold conditions can be expected, along with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, spreading into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape.”
According to some residents in Khayelitsha, the rain has caused severe damage and affected many families in low-lying areas.
Community leader at RR informal settlement Monde Nqulwana described the conditions in the community as bad. He said some residents were forced to vacate their shacks.
“The conditions in the area are so bad. Many homes have been flooded,” said Nqulwana. He said the situation has been worsened by a nearby pond which is filled to the brim. “The water is now flowing into some of the shacks. There is flooding on the other side of Japhta Masemola Road. Water is flooding RR and France informal areas,” explained Nqulwana.
Lategan reminded those in distress to log their requests for City services via the online platforms or the Customer call Centre on 0860 103 089. Emergency incidents should be directed to the Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700.
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