SAWS warns of heavy winds and rough sea conditions in Cape provinces during long weekend
Western Cape residents needs to brace themselves as the South African Weather Service has warned of widespread flooding and damaging winds over the Cape provinces this long weekend as an intense cut-off low moves over South Africa.
In a statement, the SAWS said the cut-off low pressure will
mainly be from Sunday onwards, adding that the Western – and Eastern Cape will experience
the brunt of the extreme weather conditions, with the potential for widespread
flooding, very rough seas, and damaging winds to occur,
‘’Global and in-house (regional) numerical model data has
since aligned, and confidence with regard to the expected disruptions is
higher. Torrential 48-hour rainfall in excess of 100-200 mm is possible in
places over the Western and Eastern Cape provinces from Sunday into Monday,
with damaging winds (60-80km/h) likely in some areas,’’ read the statement.
⚠️☔️The cut-off low intensifies tomorrow (Sunday, 24 September 2023), causing widespread showers and thundershowers across many areas. Widespread flooding, severe thunderstorms, gale-force winds, and rough seas can be expected. pic.twitter.com/5uLRecKWoA
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) September 23, 2023
It said the Wild Coast and adjacent interior of the Eastern
Cape and the Overberg, Southern Cape Winelands and Garden Route Districts of
the Western cape can expect torrential rainfall over the next few days, with
widespread flooding of roads, bridges and property (informal and formal) and
danger to lives.
The National Sea Rescue institute (NSRI) spokesperson Craig
Lambinon, urged everyone in the places to be cautious as the heavy rainfall may
cause flooding in areas like inland rivers, dams and waterways.
‘’We are appealing to the public to follow SAWS weather
warnings and updated weather forecasts. Don’t deliberately get into harms way. While
some areas appear not be affected, those in affected areas NSRI are appealing
for safety.’’
Lambinon also appealed to Seafarers to wear their life
jackets while at sea and for coastal hikers, shoreline anglers, paddlers,
sailboarders, surfers and bathers to rather stay away from rough seas and be
safety conscious.
The City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management, Charlotte
Powell, said all its relevant Departments are on standby to deal with any impacts
brought on by the forecast.
Powell reminded the public of the following tips on flood preparedness, mitigation and prevention:
• Clearing out
drainage systems
• Raising the
floor level of a structure so that it is higher than the natural ground level
• Making
sandbags
• Digging
trenches around the house to divert water away
• Reporting
blocked drains, intakes and illegal dumping – illegal dumping in the stormwater
canals and sewers makes flooding worse.
• Fix leaking
roofs.
The Western Cape’s Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, Anton Bredell, said the DRMC is ready to play a coordination role if needed this long weekend.
“All emergency, essential, as well as safety structures,
are placed on a state of readiness and contingency plans are in place for any
eventuality that might occur. We are asking the public to please be careful
from Sunday late afternoon until Monday. The weather will be very unpleasant and
even dangerous in some places. Travel and visits to coastal towns, especially
in the Overberg and Garden Route district municipalities should be carefully
considered. No recreational sea activities are recommended due to the higher
than usual waves and very strong winds which are expected.’’
Done By: Esona Mfazwe & Mitchum George
Comments