As flood season hits, informal settlements in flood plains are unsurprisingly hardest hit
Heavy rains have wreaked havoc in the Western Cape, leaving over 4,000 people homeless and destroying around 1,000 homes. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 8 warning for damaging winds and heavy downpours, predicting the severe weather to continue until 10 July 2024.
The flooding has particularly impacted Khayelitsha’s Ward 99, where nearly 1,000 homes have been destroyed. Residents have been left without shelter, as the rains show no signs of abating.
Several roads across the region have been affected by the adverse weather conditions:
In Bellville, a tree is blocking traffic on Old Paarl and De La Haye Avenue, with more roads likely to be impacted as the weather persists. Helshoogte Pass has been closed due to these adverse conditions, according to the Stellenbosch Municipality.
Current road closures reported to the Traffic Control Room include:
Assessments are ongoing in Philippi, with reports of flooding being investigated in Asanda Village and Mfuleni. In Endlovini, around 800 structures were impacted by strong winds overnight, and discussions are underway with the Province and National Government to provide shelter for those in need.
Several roads that were flooded in the early hours have since been cleared. The Roads Department is inspecting Kalk Bay after two mudslides earlier this week and is also pumping water from Highlands Estate. The Recreation and Parks Department has reported four incidents of fallen trees.
Motorists are urged to drive cautiously and stay within speed limits to avoid accidents. Western Cape Disaster Management teams remain on standby to respond to further emergencies.
