Exercise extreme caution on roads as bad weather hits the Cape

The Western Cape Mobility Department is urging all road users to exercise extreme caution amid inclement weather across the Cape.

The South African Weather Service has issued a warning that a series of cold fronts are expected to affect the Western Cape this weekend, bringing heavy downpours, strong winds, and the risk of flooding in several areas of the province.

“Disruptive rain is expected over the western parts of the Western Cape, with damaging winds along the south coast with possible disruptive snow along the Drakensberg mountains. Partly cloudy conditions are expected for the central and southern parts of the country, with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers, but widespread in places over the south-western areas,’’ said SAWS in a statement.

The Mobility department warned that unsafe road conditions may be expected, including reduced visibility, waterlogged surfaces, and flooding of low-lying areas and bridges.

“We call on all residents and visitors to the Western Cape to prioritise safety as inclement weather conditions set in. Our Provincial Traffic Law Enforcement officers will be monitoring high-risk routes, attending to road closures where needed, and responding to incidents to keep our road network as safe as possible. We ask all road users to do their part by driving responsibly and remaining alert,” said Isaac Sileku, Western Cape Mobility MEC

“Every winter we see similar challenges - flooded roads, poor visibility, and increased risk for both drivers and pedestrians. Please plan ahead, stay informed through updates, and adjust your travel habits to the conditions. Small decisions, like switching on your headlights or slowing down in the rain, can help prevent incidents,” added Muneera Allie, Western Cape Mobility Department’s Head of Communication.

COURTESY: X - @CapeTownFreeway

Meanwhile, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA is urging pet owners to bring their pets indoors as localised flooding in low-lying areas, rockfalls and mudslides are in forecast.

The City of Cape Town says its Disaster Risk Management Centre teams are on standby for any eventualities.

‘’The Disaster Risk Management Centre will once again coordinate the City's response to any impacts brought about by the forecast. We have also alerted our NGO partners who will provide humanitarian assistance where needed. We ask that residents please address any issues on their properties to mitigate the risk of localised flooding. Also, please log service requests for any City-related services so that these can be assigned to the relevant departments,' said Sonica Lategan, Disaster Risk Management Centre spokesperson.

‘’The City works as quickly as possible to address weather-related issues where they occur. The rate of assessment and action can be slowed by prevailing weather conditions, and we also have to consider the safety of staff members. If required, our Disaster Coordinating Committee will convene to coordinate responses where needed. However, I do want to appeal to the public to help ease the load where possible. For example, motor vehicle accidents tend to soar during wet weather spells, eating into available enforcement and emergency resources. Do your bit and employ driving tactics that are appropriate for the road conditions,’’ she added.

 

GENERAL FLOOD PREVENTION MITIGATION TIPS:

·        Do not build in low-lying areas, near water bodies or roads

·        Raise the floor above ground level using wood or stilts

·        Use cement floors rather than wooden or sand floors

·        Make sure the roof and outer walls are rain proof

·        Use metal sheeting, sandbags or dig trenches to divert or hold back water

·        Keep stormwater drains clear

 

Done By: Elona Sibunzi