Sixteen people were safely rescued after a flash flood left travellers stranded in Meiringspoort, prompting a coordinated emergency response from multiple agencies.
Following rockfalls and rapidly rising water levels that led to the recent closure of Meiringspoort, the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness Emergency Medical Services (WCDHW EMS), together with partner agencies, mobilised to assist stranded travellers and ensure their safe evacuation.
The first alert was received on Friday afternoon, 27 March, when the Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management team reported a vehicle unable to exit the area due to severe flooding.
According to Richard Botha, WCDHW EMS manager who coordinated the response on the ground, the operation required swift decision- making and close collaboration.
“From Friday afternoon through to Saturday morning (28 March), with the operation concluding at approximately 11:30, teams worked to save all affected people,” he said.
“A total of 16 people were successfully evacuated, including 12 people stranded from a tourist bus on Friday and four truck drivers.”
The four truck drivers were airlifted to safety by the Air Mercy Service (AMS) Skymed 2 medical rescue helicopter, which proved essential in reaching individuals isolated by floodwaters.
The rescue formed part of a multi-agency response involving EMS, AMS, the South African Police Service (SAPS), Oudtshoorn Fire and Rescue, and Prince Albert Fire and Rescue.
WCDHW EMS director Craig Wylie commended the teams involved, highlighting the importance of collaboration during emergency situations: “To our EMS rescue teams and key partners, thank you for preventing injury by executing difficult rescues of people stranded in this flash flood. Your discipline, courage and unwavering focus on protecting lives reflect the very best of public service,” he said.
WCDHW minister Mireille Wenger added: “This response was made possible through strong coordination between EMS rescue teams, the local municipalities, SAPS and provincial traffic, all working together to keep people safe.”
The incident serves as a reminder of how quickly conditions can change.
Authorities urge the public to stay informed and make cautious travel decisions, enabling emergency services to focus their efforts where they are most needed.