Four boys trapped on an island in Mpindweni, Mqanduli, in the Eastern Cape after heavy rains caused rising water levels were rescued shortly after 11pm on Tuesday.
The King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) municipality continues to assess the damage caused by the flooding.
The boys had gone fishing during the day but got stuck due to rising waters.
Mayoral spokesperson Olwethu Mabovula said the boys were checked by medics and are fine.
No fatalities were reported in the district.
Mabovula said heavy rain had affected roads across the municipality’s 37 wards, particularly in the coastal areas of Mqanduli and Coffee Bay.
Areas affected include Alfred Nzo, OR Tambo, Amathole, Chris Hani district municipalities and Buffalo City metropolitan municipality.
“Roads are wet and slippery, and conditions may change quickly. Residents are advised to avoid flooded roads and bridges and never attempt to cross moving or rising water. Please use alternative routes where possible and follow the instructions of emergency personnel.”
Those planning to travel to or from KSD municipality have been urged to consider postponing their trips where possible until weather conditions improve.
“Residents, especially those living in low-lying and flood-prone areas, are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. So far there are no reports of fatalities and rescue teams are on high alert.
“The municipality is aware that several areas are experiencing electricity outages. Municipal electricians are working to restore power in the affected areas. Residents are to treat fallen power lines as dangerous and report them immediately,” said Mabovula.
The municipality said it will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
TimesLIVE
Shonisani Tshikalange
www.timeslive.co.za