WCDMC Statement: Severe Weather Update

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?

• 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