26 July 2016
Western Cape Disaster Management Centre – Severe Weather Update
The Western Cape Disaster Management Centre has been alerted by the South African Weather Service that current adverse weather conditions is expected to continue across large parts of the Western Cape until Thursday.
Members of the public are advised that heavy rain can still be expected particularly in the Overberg and Peninsula region, along the West Coast, its adjacent interior and the Cape Winelands. In addition gale force wind and very cold weather conditions can be expected.
The Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell says the concern is that the continuous heavy rainfall may lead to localized flooding in some areas.
“Some of the other associated risks during bad weather like this also includes mudslides and informal settlement fires.”
The SAWS advisory notes that very cold conditions will persist for the week with possible light snowfalls may occur over the Nuweveld, Cedeberg, Namaqualand and Swartberg mountain ranges.
Provincial as well as Municipal Disaster Management Centres remain fully operational with officials on standby 24/7. These centres can be activated immediately should the need arise.
The Minister has called on the public to contact the relevant disaster management entities as quickly as possible should an emergency occur.
He has also called on communities to cooperate with local authorities and emergency response personnel in the event of any emergency.
“The easiest number to remember to call in an emergency is 112. This number can be dialled tollfree from any cellphone.”
In case of emergency other relevant numbers to call are:
Cape Winelands: Langeberg Municipality 0860 88 1111
Eden District: 044 805 5071
Central Karoo: 023 414 2603
West Coast: 022 433 8700
Overberg: 028 271 8111
City of Cape Town: 107 landline or 021 480 7700
Flooding related Tip Sheet
How Can I Prepare for a Flood?
What Should I do during a flooding?
What Should I do after the flood?
ENDS
James-Brent Styan
Spokesperson for the Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell
Mobile: 084 583 1670
Telephone: 021 483 2820