Western Cape Disaster Management Centre – Severe Weather Update

The Western Cape Disaster Management Centre has been alerted by the South African Weather Service that adverse weather conditions is expected from lunchtime tomorrow (Friday 21 June 2019) across large parts of the Western Cape continuing into the weekend.

The Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell says the province is expecting heavy rain, strong, damaging winds and potentially flashfloods in some areas.

“While we welcome the expected rain, we are concerned about the impact of a big storm and we want to caution the public to be cautious over the next few days when moving around outdoors.”

Bredell says all municipalities in the province have already been alerted. In addition Disaster Management and fire and rescue services have also been alerted and will be on standby to assist communities negatively affected by the storm.

“The Provincial Disaster Management Centre will be meeting tomorrow morning to assess the situation. We will provide further updates following that meeting. Some good news is the fact that it is school holidays at the moment, which means traffic volumes will be less tomorrow.”

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 toll-free from any cell phone.”

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?

• Identify the risk in your local area.
• Prepare a home emergency plan, and identify risks around your home.
• Remove leaves (from downpipes or gutters) or any other items that can increase the risk of flooding in your area.
• Have an evacuation plan. Everyone in your family has to know where to go to find shelter.
•  Prepare an emergency toolkit. This should include a first aid kit, torch and portable radio with batteries, candles and waterproof matches, drinking water, a multi-tool, whistle and emergency contact numbers.

What Should I do during a flooding?

• Monitor current flood warnings. Listen to the radio for emergency warnings, evacuation advice and weather updates.
• Avoid entering floodwater unless it is necessary, and never underestimate the strength of floodwater, even if you are inside a vehicle.
• Follow all instructions from emergency authorities.
• Turn off all electricity and water and take your cellphone with you.
• Assist elderly and disabled neighbours.

What Should I do after the flood?

• Before entering your house, wait until the water has dropped below floor level.
• Check with electricity and water authorities to know whether it is safe for you to use these resources.
• Be aware of contamination if water sources have been flooded; this could be unsafe to drink.

ENDS.