Weather Warning

The Western Cape Disaster Management Centre has been alerted to adverse weather conditions expected in areas of the Western Cape on Wednesday and Thursday.

Members of the public are advised that heavy rain, strong windy conditions in the interior and very cold weather conditions can be expected over the next two days.

The Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell says the concern is that the heavy rain 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 as well as severe cold made worse by the possible electricity challenges due to potential load shedding.”

Bredell has urged motorists and pedestrians traveling in the province over the next few days, to take extra caution.

“Care should be taken when crossing low lying bridges, or streams and rivers as floodwaters may be on the way.”

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 reminded 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 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?

• 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.

Contact these additional Emergency Numbers:

• 112 (from a cellphone) and 10177 from a landline.
• Report floods, blocked drains and service disruption to 0860 103 089.
• City of Cape Town Disaster Risk Management Centre: 080 911 4357.