Winter disaster readiness | Western Cape Government

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Winter disaster readiness

6 April 2021

The Western Cape is gearing up for a wet and cold winter and the Western Cape Disaster Management Centre (WCDMC) is putting contingency plans in place to keep the public safe.

The Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell says the main risks this winter season are:

  • heavy rains and flooding,
  • cold weather,
  • informal settlement fires,
  • electricity constraints
  • and mudslides associated with wet weather.

“All thirty municipalities in the province are preparing for the coming winter. Our municipalities have standard operating procedures and contingency plans in place to address incidents in their areas. These plans include emergency response, providing relief and arranging temporary shelter for affected communities.”

Several pro-active steps have been put in place already. These include:

  • An agreement with the South African Defence Force to use helicopters for rescue operations.
  • Open communication channels and regular updates between the WCDMC and the South African Weather Service regarding early weather forecasts, as well as with the Department of Water Affairs for the monitoring of dam levels and river flows.
  • Contingencies have been developed for the possibility of severe power shortages.
  • All disaster centres remain on standby.
  • HAZMAT units are available in the Central Karoo and Overberg District Municipalities to respond to incidents on the N1 and N2 respectively.
  • The Department of Local Government has provided in 60 Fire and Rescue vehicles to municipalities in the province. Every Western Cape municipality has a modern and well-equipped firefighting capacity.
  • The province has access to 130 highly trained rescue technicians who are able to perform complex rescue operations.

“The public is urged to contact the emergency services in the event of any disaster or situation where people may need help. The easiest number to remember is 112. This is a tollfree number and can be dialled from any cell phone,” says Bredell.

Additional regional numbers for reporting emergencies in the Western Cape:

dlg-winter-weather

Bad weather related tip sheet

 

How can I prepare for bad weather events?

dlg-winter-weather

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 cell phone with you.
  • Assist elderly and disabled neighbours where possible.
  • Contact the authorities as soon as possible.

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.

Further winter weather tips:

dlg-winter-weather

 

Media Enquiries: 

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

E-mail:                    James-Brent.Styan@westerncape.gov.za