South Africa is on high alert as heavy rainfall and strong winds move across several provinces.
Authorities are warning that flooding and infrastructure damage could impact services and also put communities at risk.
The National Disaster Management Centre says it’s coordinating with local authorities.
Dr Bongani Elias Sithole, Head of the National Disaster Management Centre, says they’re monitoring certain parts of the country very closely.
“We’re concerned about areas in the Western Cape, particularly the Garden Route, Central Karoo and areas in the Cape Winelands and the coastline.”
Schools in George, Knysna, and Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape will remain closed today (Wednesday) and Thursday, while various districts in the Eastern Cape, including Nelson Mandela Bay, are also closing schools until Friday.
“We have been working with the Department of Transport and the Department of Education to make sure school-going children are safe, and also the learner transport, so that they don’t cross the flooded roads,” says Sithole.
The National Disaster Management Centre is also urging residents to take warnings seriously and prepare for possible disruptions.
“For now, we don’t have any fatalities in the Western Cape… There are only fatalities in the Northern Cape.”
Emergency teams are closely monitoring hotspots, particularly in areas prone to flooding and poor drainage, and the SANDF has been brought in to assist, says Sithole.
“We have contacted the SANDF to assist us with aerial support so we can reach areas that have been cut off as a result of the rainfall… So we will be able to assist communities that are stranded.”
Parts of the Eastern Cape are also being monitored closely.
“You’ll remember that in previous years we lost more than 100 people as a result of the floods… We have activated our joint centres at the provincial level as well as the municipal level.”
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) is advising members of the public to avoid crossing flooded roads and swollen rivers, exercise caution when travelling and secure loose outdoor items.
Sara-Jayne Makwala King
www.ewn.co.za