Severe weather in the Western Cape over the last five days has left at least six people dead.
Moreover, major transport routes have been cut off, water supply has been disrupted, and thousands of people are left in limbo.
The N1 remains closed at several points between Worcester and De Doorns due to flooding, with key routes including Du Toitskloof Pass, the Huguenot Tunnel and Bainskloof Pass also shut.
Authorities have urged motorists to avoid all non-essential travel through the Cape Winelands, where conditions remain dangerous and alternative routes are limited.
Heavy rain and power outages have also disrupted water supply in parts of the Garden Route, including Uniondale, Denver Park and several suburbs in George.
In Cape Town, humanitarian relief operations are underway to assist more than 83,000 people. This, after more than 20,000 dwellings were impacted by flooding and storm damage.
The city’s Disaster Risk Management Centre’s spokesperson, Charlotte Powell, explained: “We ask communities to please pay special attention to vulnerable households and to render assistance where possible.”
Western Cape schools are set to reopen on Wednesday, though some may remain closed due to damage or access challenges.
Carlo Petersen
www.ewn.co.za