Media Release: Storm Update

For Immediate Release
9 July 2020

A severe winter storm is starting to make landfall in the Western Cape. The South African Weather Services are advising that besides heavy rain and strong winds, disruptive snowfalls are expected over the high-ground of the Cape Winelands overnight tomorrow into Saturday morning.

The Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, is urging the public to take heed of the early warnings and to limit the amount of time spent outdoors over the next few days.

“It is going to get very cold and very wet. We have also been alerted to the fact that the national electricity grid is under extreme pressure with load shedding a possibility at this stage. Please do what you can to reduce electricity consumption. Consider livestock and small animals that may be exposed to the elements and try to limit the amount of travel over the next few days.”

In the event of any emergency, the disaster responders are on hand to assist. The easiest number to remember to call in the Western Cape is 112.

In case of emergency other relevant numbers to call are:

Cape Winelands Municipality                                021 888 5837

Garden Route District:                                            044 805 5071

Central Karoo:                                                          023 449 8000

West Coast:                                                               022 433 8700

Overberg:                                                                 028 425 1690

City of Cape Town:                                                 107 landlines or 021 480 7700

Flooding related Tip Sheet

How Can I Prepare for a Flood?

• Identify the risk in your local area.
•  Prepare a home emergency plan, and identify risks around your home.
• Remove leaves (from downpipes or gutters) or any other items that can increase the risk of flooding in your area.
• Have an evacuation plan. Everyone in your family has to know where to go to find shelter.
• Prepare an emergency toolkit. This should include a first aid kit, torch and portable radio with batteries, candles and waterproof matches, drinking water, a multi-tool, whistle and emergency contact numbers.

What Should I do during flooding?

• Monitor current flood warnings. Listen to the radio for emergency warnings, evacuation advice and weather updates.
• Avoid entering floodwater unless it is necessary, and never underestimate the strength of floodwater, even if you are inside a vehicle.
• Follow all instructions from emergency authorities.
• Turn off all electricity and water and take your cellphone with you.
• Assist elderly and disabled neighbours.

What Should I do after the flood?

• Before entering your house, wait until the water has dropped below floor level.
• Check with electricity and water authorities to know whether it is safe for you to use these resources.
• Be aware of contamination if water sources have been flooded; this could be unsafe to drink.

ENDS.

Media enquiries:

James-Brent Styan

Spokesperson for the Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell

Mobile:                   084 583 1670

Telephone:            021 483 2820

E-mail:                    James-Brent.Styan@westerncape.gov.za