The Western Cape Disaster Management Centre has been alerted by the South African Weather Service that adverse weather conditions are expected across large parts of the Western Cape starting over the coming weekend and moving into next week.
Members of the public are advised that an intense cold front is expected. The public and small stock farmers are advised that strong winds over the interior, localised flooding over the south-western Cape, heavy rain in mountainous regions, as well as very cold conditions and possible snowfalls over high-lying areas can be expected. Torrential rain, and strong winds along the coast and over land is to be expected as well as heavy snowfall in some areas.
The Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell says while the province welcomes the wet weather, the concern is that the conditions may cause severe disruptions and possibly endanger lives of the public and animals exposed to the elements.
“Some of the associated risks during bad weather like this includes mudslides and informal settlement fires. We want to advise the public to use extreme caution when traveling in the Western Cape or if exposed to the weather over the next few days.”
Provincial as well as Municipal Disaster Management Centres will be fully operational with officials on standby 24/7. These centrers can be activated immediately should the need arise.
“The public is advised to contact their closest disaster management centre as quickly as possible should an emergency occur. The easiest number to remember to call in an emergency is 112. This number can be dialled toll-free from any cell phone. We are also calling on communities to cooperate with local authorities and emergency response personnel in the event of any emergency.”
In case of emergency other relevant numbers to call are: Oudtshoorn: 044 203 7800;Eden District: 044 805 5071.