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With the devastation suffered during the damaging storms at the end of September still fresh in our minds, everyone is on high alert after the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Level 9 Weather Warning for the Overberg and other areas in the Western Cape.
All Disaster Management and Emergency Services have been put on high alert and met yesterday to discuss pro-active measures to be taken to mitigate and address possible damage as result of gale force winds and heavy rainfall.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said: “The top priority at this stage is protecting lives followed by critical infrastructure and property.”
He appealed to all residents to exercise vigilance and caution, and not to take any unnecessary risks.
“We also know that inclement weather always impacts the vulnerable in our communities and we are mobilising resources to support them too. As always, our front-line services and disaster management teams are out and responding – thank you for all you have done so far and will do during the storm and in its aftermath.”
Indications are that heavy rain and thunder showers as well as strong winds can be expected today (Monday 8 April), the peak anticipated for between 08:00 and 11:00.
The areas around Elim and Stanford have been identified as the epicentre of the storm. Authorities have stated that there is a risk of rockfalls and mudslides in areas that were ravaged by fires recently.
The Premier and Education MEC David Maynier also announced yesterday that all schools in the Overberg District would be closed today due to the severe weather anticipated.
Authorities have also announced that Clarence Drive (R44), between Gordon’s Bay and Kleinmond, has been closed to traffic while various other routes are being monitored. The closure of this route is expected to cause high traffic volumes on the N2 and the R43.
Motorists are urged to be cautious, switch their headlights on, maintain a safe following distance and to obey instructions from traffic officers.
A statement by the Overberg District Municipality reads: “Various roads in the region are currently being monitored and regular updates will be provided should anything change. Motorists are once again reminded to please use extreme caution when driving and if possible, rather stay off the roads, especially those roads which are prone to flooding and damage.”
The municipality appealed to residents to refrain from posting or sharing fake news but to rather follow their local municipality’s Facebook pages for accurate information and regular updates.
Eskom have reported that it is currently experiencing major backlogs of faults due to multiple faults in the Western Cape caused by the inclement weather conditions. Citizens can contact their local authorities should they experience any power outages in their areas.
For information and latest updates about the impact of the storm on the Western Cape call the Western Cape Government’s call centre on 0860 142 142 (operational 24/7 until further notice) or visit the dedicated webpage: www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/severe-weather-alerts-and-updates-7-april
All Disaster Management teams are on standby and ready to assist any incidents that may be reported.. Overberg District Municipality – 028 425 1690. Cape Agulhas Municipality – 028 425 5500. Overstrand Municipality – 028 312 2400. Theewaterskloof Municipality – 080 021 4730. Swellendam Municipality – 028 425 1690
