Skip to content Skip to left sidebar Skip to footer

Floods

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 2 on 6 May 2026 at 13h00

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Alert 2 on 6 May 2026 at 13h00

Issued by Garden Route District Municipality

CURRENT ROADS CLOSED

The following roads are currently closed until further notice (issued by WC Gov):

MR369 – Swartberg Pass
TR33/4 – Meiringspoort
MR401 – Queen Street between Uniondale and Avontuur
TR44/1 (R62) – Between Avontuur and the Eastern Cape boundary
MR355 – Karatara Pass between George and Knysna
MR390 – Wittedrift
TR2/12 – Grootrivier Pass (Nature’s Valley)

GENERAL FEEDBACK

The Head of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Disaster Management Centre, Gerhard Otto has confirmed that the Eastern parts of the region, including Plettenberg Bay and Knysna are among the areas hardest hit by the severe weather. In Knysna, 197mm rain has been recorded and an excess of 200mm rain in the Bitou municipal area. “At this point, some roads are flooded, while others are extremely slippery and inaccessible,” Otto added.

“We commend the Western Cape Provincial Government Department of Education for closing schools during this time because this has reduced the number of vehicles on roads and kept children safe,” said Otto.

KNYSNA FATALITY

Persistent rainfall, combined with strong winds, have caused dozens of trees to uproot. The public is urged to remain extremely cautious during this period. According to Gerhard Otto: “A woman from Knysna tragically lost her life this morning after a tree uprooted and fell onto her vehicle while she was parked underneath it”.

PLETTENBERG BAY RIVER BANK BURST

In Plettenberg Bay, the Piesang Valley River burst its banks, resulting in flooding near the lower parking areas adjacent to the Beacon Isle Hotel. Flooded is seen from sea-and river sides, subsiding. Residents living along the river have since been evacuated as a precaution and are being accommodated at nearby community halls. In the Haarlem area, a community hall was also opened to accommodate residents impacted by floods.

Eighty (80) people in the Wittedrift area were also evacuated to the Wittedrift Community Hall.

MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Authorities have also reported damage to critical infrastructure, including sewer pump stations, sections of the water supply network and in some locations power was switched off as a safety measure. Engineering teams are currently assessing the damage and working to restore affected services as quickly as possible.

WEATHER FORECAST

Wind gusts between 50 and 60 km/h are expected to continue throughout the day and night, increasing the likelihood of falling trees and debris. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid unnecessary travel, as several roads across the district have become flooded, slippery or inaccessible.

Rainfall is expected to persist for the remainder of today into the early hours of tomorrow, 7 May, with an additional 30 to 50 mm forecast over the eastern parts of the Garden Route region. “We will only see some relief by tomorrow,” said Otto.

Residents are urged to monitor official municipal communication channels and to prioritise safety at all times.

SAFETY MEASURES (ABC’S)

A. Be careful of parking under large trees and traveling in general. Saturated ground may cause trees or branches to fall unexpectedly, posing a risk to vehicles and pedestrians. Only travel when necessary and remain alert on the roads.

B. Avoid low-lying bridges, drifts and flooded river crossings. Fast-flowing water can rise rapidly and may sweep away vehicles or pedestrians. Never attempt to cross a flooded bridge or roadway.

C. Multiple areas are currently experiencing unplanned power interruptions. Residents are urged to remain cautious around electrical infrastructure and to treat all power lines as live.

D. Motorists are advised to exercise caution on the N2 between Klein Brak River and Great Brak River due to sand and debris on the roadway. Reduced speeds are advised. Relevant teams from SANRAL and Mossel Bay Municipality are attending to the area.

Only follow
Follow municipal Facebook Pages and WhatsApp Channels for updates in town areas:

Report Provincial Road Issues via Download the Roads4U app
Google Play
iOS

The Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management Unit encourages the public to report flood-related incidents to the 24/7 Emergency Call Centre of the GRDM – 044 805 5071 or WhatsApp 081 709 5193

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 1 on 6 May 2026 at 08h45

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 1 on 6 May 2026 at 08h45

Issued by Garden Route District Municipality

Local Municipalities remain the first responders to incidents within their respective areas, while the Garden Route District Municipality continues to provide support, coordination and additional resources where required through its Disaster Management Centre.

CROSS-BOUNDARY IMPACTS

  • The Garden Route district is cut off from the Central Karoo District because Meiringspoort and Swartberg Passes have been closed until further notice.

SAFETY ADVISORIES (ABC’s)

  • A. Be careful of parking under large trees and traveling in general. Saturated ground may cause trees or branches to fall unexpectedly, posing a risk to vehicles and pedestrians. Only travel when necessary and remain alert on the roads.
  • B. Avoid low-lying bridges, drifts and flooded river crossings. Fast-flowing water can rise rapidly and may sweep away vehicles or pedestrians. Never attempt to cross a flooded bridge or roadway.
  • C. Multiple areas are currently experiencing unplanned power interruptions. Residents are urged to remain cautious around electrical infrastructure and to treat all power lines as live.
  • D. Motorists are advised to exercise caution on the N2 between Klein Brak River and Great Brak River due to sand and debris on the roadway. Reduced speeds are advised. Relevant teams from SANRAL and Mossel Bay Municipality are attending to the area.

DISTRICT COORDINATED ACTIONS

  • District Roads are coordinated by GRDM and those that are open and closed will be published during the course of the incident.

WEATHER INTELLIGENCE

Majority of the rain measured is at the Eastern part of the region.

  • Near George Airport: 53,6mm
  • Witfontein: 76,8 mm
  • George Tierkpop: 61,0 mm
  • George Jonkershoek: 88,8 mm
  • George Waboomskraal: 117,6 mm
  • Rheebok-Sandhoogte: 40,4 mm
  • Wilderness Dieprivier: 73,6 mm
  • Wilderness heights: 60,8 mm
  • Herold Lovain ARS: 78,4 mm
  • Knysna Charlesford: 122,4 mm
  • Knysna Kleingrysbos: 120,2 mm
  • Knysna Diepwalle: 105,8 mm
  • Plett: 92,6 mm
  • Plett Newlands: 113,2 mm
  • Stormsrivier Witteklip: 82,0 mm
  • Stormsrivier Forest Fern: 114,2 mm
  • Knysna Kruisfontein: 99,8 mm
  • Mosselbaai: 20,6 mm
  • Mosselbaai Robinson Pass: 76,0 mm
  • Witsand Westfield: 8,2 mm
  • Riversdal: 20,0 mm
  • Riversdal Grootbos: 19,8 mm
  • Riversdal Assegaaibosh: 15,2 mm
  • Stilbaai: 13,6 mm
  • Heidelberg Kruisrivier: 14,6 mm
  • Ladismith: 17,6 mm
  • Oudtshoorn: 32,2 mm
  • De Rust Std: 61,6 mm
    Kammanasieberg Vinkrivier: 82,6 mm
  • Avontuur Bellevue: 83,0 mm
  • Avontuur Boskloof: 101,8 mm
  • Uniondale De Hoop: 136,2 mm

ACTIVATION OF DISASTER STRUCTURES

Two Swift Water Rescue Teams from Cape Town SAPS are stationed in Oudtshoorn and Knysna (16 people in total)

Only follow
Follow municipal Facebook Pages and WhatsApp Channels for updates in town areas:

Report Provincial Road Issues via Download the Roads4U app
Google Play
iOS

The Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management Unit encourages the public to report flood-related incidents to the 24/7 Emergency Call Centre of the GRDM – 044 805 5071 or WhatsApp 081 709 5193

Floods in the Garden Route

23 June 2025 Media Release: Another intense cold front is expected to hit the Namakwa District of the Northern Cape and the Western Cape from Wednesday to Friday, 25 to 27 June 2025

Media Release: Another intense cold front is expected to hit the Namakwa District of the Northern Cape and the Western Cape from Wednesday to Friday, 25 to 27 June 2025

For immediate release
23 June 2025

An intense cold front is expected to make landfall on Wednesday, 25 June 2025, over the south-western parts of South Africa, bringing a significant shift in weather conditions across the region. The system is expected to result in the following impacts:

For the public:

  • Heavy rainfall with a risk of localised flooding over the western parts of the Western Cape, especially in low-lying and poorly drained areas on Wednesday into Thursday (25-26 June 2025).
    Wet and slippery roads may result in dangerous driving conditions. Motorists should exercise caution and adhere to safety measures.
  • Strong and gusty winds over the interior may cause localised damage to structures and uproot trees.
  • Cold to very cold conditions can be expected, along with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, spreading into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape.

For Maritime:

  • Gale force winds and very rough seas, with wave heights between 5,5 to 7,5 metres, along the coastlines of the Northern Cape and Western Cape, will lead to disruptions to fishing and port operations, an increased risk of vessels capsizing, accidents at sea, and hazardous shoreline conditions. Coastal residents and beachgoers are urged to exercise caution.
  • As the system progresses eastwards, it will affect the Eastern Cape, a region already vulnerable to weather-related impacts. The key concern is the strong damaging winds expected across most parts of the province on Thursday, 26 June 2025.
  • Interior winds are expected to pick up and spread over the remainder of eastern provinces on Thursday and Friday, 26 and 27 June 2025, with daytime temperatures dropping to the cold category.

The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor any further developments relating to the weather systems and will issue subsequent updates as required. Furthermore, intermediate updates may be followed on X (@SAWeatherServic), Facebook (South African Weather Service) or other SAWS-supported social media platforms.

Compiled by: Tokelo Chiloane, Henning Grobler and Wayne Venter
Edited by: Jacqueline Modika
Approved by: Mr Rudzani Malala
For technical and weather enquiries:
National Forecasting Centre: Tel: 012 367 6041

Media enquiries: Mr Oupa Segalwe, Senior Manager: Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Cell: 0722643273; e-mail oupa.segalwe@weathersa.co.za /or
Ms Hannelee Doubell: Manager, Communications
Tel: (012) 367 6104; Cell: 072 222 6305; e-mail: hannelee.doubell@weathersa.co.za
USSD: Dial *120*7297# 

25 June 2024 Media Release: Request for a Local Disaster declaration submitted by GRDM with specific reference to the Oudtshoorn municipal area

Media Release: Request for a Local Disaster declaration submitted by GRDM with specific reference to the Oudtshoorn municipal area

25 June 2024

In response to the severe flooding experienced between 8 April and 11 April 2024, and from 2 June to 6 June 2024, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) requested the Western Cape Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) to support a declaration of the Garden Route with specific reference to the Oudtshoorn Local Municipal area as a Local Disaster area. The PDMC pledged their support for the nearly R500 million submission. This was was subsequently submitted to the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) to agree with the classification or to re-classify it.

The Garden Route district experienced prolonged and heavy rainfall and a downflow of water from adjacent districts, leading to the spilling of dams and significant downstream flooding. Several major and minor roads had to be closed, and in the Oudtshoorn area, the Koos Raubenheimer-, Kammanassie-, and Stompdrift Dams overflowed, contributing to the flooding of the Olifants River. The Stompdrift Dam overflowed for the first time in the last nine years and peaked at more than 136% in capacity. The Gamkapoort Dam also overflowed, intensifying the already critical situation. This resulted in extensive damage to both urban and rural infrastructure.

Damages reported for the Oudtshoorn Municipality are more than R100 million, agriculture-related damages are estimated at R182 million and damages to district roads and infrastructure are projected to surpass R200 million.

Under Schedule D2 of the powers delegated to the current Executive Mayor of GRDM, Ald. Gert van Niekerk by the Council, he has the authority to support or declare a local state of disaster if warranted by the Disaster Management Act, Act 57 of 2002, as amended.

Ald. Gert van Niekerk supported the declaration and said: “This type of declaration enables access to additional resources and funds to assist in restoring, rebuilding, and improving infrastructure damaged after a disastrous event.”

Gerhard Otto, heading Disaster Management at GRDM indicated that: “The declaration of a local disaster will allow the municipality to access disaster recovery and rehabilitation grant funding and permit the necessary provincial and municipal budgets to be supplemented to address the damages caused by the flooding. It will also allow for emergency procurement procedures to be followed to not only fast track rehabilitation and recovery work but also to allow for building back better to ensure a more resilient Garden Route”.

The process for declaring a local disaster involves:

  • A decision agreed to by the Councils of both the Local and District Municipality.
  • A request from the Municipal Disaster Management Centre to the PDMC for the declaration.
  • A Provincial Cabinet Resolution recommending or not recommending the request.
  • Confirmation from the National Disaster Management Centre through a classification process, followed by publication in the provincial gazette.

“Prior to the floods, the GRDM received multiple impact-based weather warnings from the South African Weather Services (SAWS), including warnings for damaging winds, waves, and disruptive rain. These warnings were disseminated to all relevant stakeholders, enabling proactive measures and contingency plans to be put in place,” said Otto.

Despite these measures, the floodwaters caused significant disruptions, including the closure of Meiringspoort, low-water bridges in Oudtshoorn, and various other roads due to flooding and rock falls. The flood also necessitated the evacuation of the Calitzdorp Hot Springs Resort and the rescue of dozens of people cut off by floodwaters in Oudtshoorn.

The GRDM in the past has successfully coordinated the declaration of local disasters for the 2010 Drought, 2006 as well as the 2022 Floods and the storm surges of 2023. Following the latter two declared disasters more than R280 million disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction grant funding were provided to the George-, Oudtshoorn-, Hessequa- and Knysna Local Municipalities to execute rehabilitation and reconstruction projects with the emphasis on building back better.

Feature image: N12 between Oudtshoorn and De Rust was damaged during the floods. 

ENDS

07 June 2024 Update 8: Garden Route Floods 9h00 Update on 7 June 2024

𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝟴: 𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗙𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘀 𝟬𝟵𝗵𝟬𝟬 𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝟳 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰

𝗜𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 (𝗚𝗥𝗗𝗠) 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲 (𝗝𝗢𝗖) 𝗮𝘁 𝟬𝟵𝗵𝟯𝟬

𝗛𝗨𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗡 𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘

Areas that were cut-off including, Warmbad and Proefplaas, were assisted by the NGO, Gift of the Givers, with humanitarian support.

The following areas will be attended to this morning, including Varkenskraal in Meiringspoort, Nel’s River, De Rust and Middelplaas.

To access relief offered by the Gift of the Givers or if you’d like to contribute, kindly reach out to Mario Ferreira at 082 490 2752.

𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗦 𝗤𝗨𝗢

The GRDM’s JOC remains active at its Head Office in George. However, the water levels of the rivers are gradually decreasing. Gerhard Otto, GRDM Head of Disaster Management, stated, “The water levels thankfully did not reach the 1996 levels at the Calitzdorp Hot Springs. Although the water spilling from dams in the catchment matched the 1996 level, they did not peak simultaneously. This resulted in the river flow moving south in ‘waves’ rather than as a single, destructive giant wave.”

Over the course of the incident, 17 people were rescued. These include four (4) women, nine (9) men and 4 children. According to the latest update, water levels are still subsiding and reached the Gouritz and are flowing to sea.

𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗥𝗢𝗔𝗗𝗦

𝗥𝗢𝗔𝗗𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗥𝗘𝗠𝗔𝗜𝗡 𝗖𝗟𝗢𝗦𝗘𝗗

Roads are proactively closed as the water flows to the southern part of the District towards the Gouritz area.

HESSEQUA

1) De Draai Road – between Albertinia and Riversdale a structure is damaged at km 26.5 (Alternative route available both sides)

2) Slangrivier – Road that provide access to the first community in Slangrivier (Alternative route to both sides)

MOSSEL BAY

1) Muiskraal /Herbertsdale road – Gouritzriver in flood (closed since 06/06/2024)

(Alternative routes available to both sides)

OUDTSHOORN

1) Kleinspoort Road between , Kammanassie river in flood (No alternative route available)

2) Waaikraal, Olifantsrivier in flood (Alternative route available both sides)

3) Le Rouxstasie, Olifantsriver in flood (Alternative route via Dysseldorp)

4) Middelplaas, Olifantsriver in flood (No alternative route available)

5) Vlakteplaas, Olifantsriver in flood, Road washaways (Locals only)

6) Oude Muragie, Debris on drift (No alternative route)

7) Vergelegen, River in flood gravel wash aways. Locals only (No alternative route available)

8) Paardebond, River in flood (Locals only with 4 x 4)

9) Slangrivier, rift approaches washed away (No alternative route available)

10) Potgieterspoort, Major damage on road (Alternative route available to both sides)

11) Volmoed, Rockfalls (Alternative routes to both sides)

12) Kammanassie dam /Rooiheuwel, River in flood (Alternative route via Dysselsdorp)

13) Rooiloop, Olifants river big waterhole over road

(Alternative routes to both sides)

14) Meiringspoort (remains closed since 04/06/2024)

Alternative Route: Via the N9, Willowmore from Beaufort West.

15) Volmoed Road due to rockfalls (remains closed since 05/06/2024)

Alternative Route: Access via the R328 between Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn.

16) Rooiheuwel Road (remains closed since 05/06/2024)

Alternative Route: Via Dysselsdorp

GEORGE/WILDERNESS/UNIONDALE

1) Pietersrivier (Alternative route via Avontuur)

2) Vaalwater, Road washaways (No alternative route)

3) Kammanassie, River in flood (Locals only) (Alternative routes on both sides)

4) Toorwater, River in flood (Locals only)

5) DR1660 Joncksrust Road (or known as Kliprivier Road) (30km from Uniondale) due to rockfalls (remains closed since 04/06/2024)

Alternative Route: Road is not fully cut-off, but can follow an alternative route via Avontuur.

6) Prince Alfred Pass between Uniondale and Knysna due to rockfalls and flooding (remains closed since 05/06/2024)

Alternative Route: No alternative route for this road.

7) Haarlem access on the west side is restricted (remains closed since 05/06/2024)

Alternative Route: Access possible from the east turn-off.

8) Oshoek, Approaches washed away. (No alternative route)

9) Gwaing, closed @ km 6.5 Structure washed away (Alternative routes on both sides)

KANNALAND

1) Gai se middelpad, Gamka river in flood (Alternative route available via Gamka west)

2) Jachtberg, Gamka river in flood (Alternative route available via Gamka west)

3) Doornkloof, Olifantsrivier river in flood (No alternative route available)

4) Vleirivier, Olifantsrivier river in flood (No alternative route available)

5) Middelpad, Olifantsrivier river in flood (No alternative route available)

𝗥𝗢𝗔𝗗𝗦 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗗 𝗔𝗚𝗔𝗜𝗡 𝗧𝗢𝗗𝗔𝗬

OUDTSHOORN

1) Cango Caves – OPEN (One lane)

2) N12 between Oudtshoorn and De Rust, proceed with caution – OPEN

3) DR1713/R328 adjacent to Raubenheimers Dam (enroute to Bergoord) – OPEN

4) R328 between Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn – OPEN

5) Swartberg Pass – OPEN

MOSSEL BAY

1) Geelbeksvlei Road – OPEN

KNYSNA

1) Rheenendal Road off the N2 – OPEN

For more roads information, please contact: Japie Strydom at 083 629 0155 / Gert Verwey at 082 882 8886.

𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗬 𝗦𝗔𝗙𝗘

People in areas near rivers or those who are considering to cross low-water bridges or structures should avoid doing so at all costs. If a residence is prone to flooding, people should move to higher ground to ensure the safety of family members, pets, and livestock. Do not attempt to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters, as these can be deeper and faster-moving than what is assumed.

Report weather-related incidents to the Garden Route Emergency Call Centre on 044 805 5071.

Updates are posted to the GRDM Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/gardenroutedm

The next update is planned for 13h30 today, 7 June 2024.

Issued: GRDM Joint Operation Centre (JOC)

06 June 2024 Update 6: Garden Route Floods 13h00 Update on 6 June 2024

Update 6: Garden Route Floods 13h00 Update on 6 June 2024

Issued by the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Joint Operations Centre (JOC) at 13h30

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE

Areas cut-off that have been reported to the GRDM DMC and to whom humanitarian assistance would be provided for are as follow:

1) Varkenskraal, Meiringspoort (4 Persons)

2) Warmbad (90 families)

3) Muisplaas (30 Families)

4) Nel’s River, De Rust (17 Persons)

5) Middelplaas (30 Persons)

To access relief offered by the NGO Gift of the Givers or if you’d like to contribute, kindly reach out to Mario Ferreira at 082 490 2752.

STATUS QUO

The GRDM’s JOC remains active at its Head Office in George. However, the water levels of the rivers are gradually decreasing. Gerhard Otto, GRDM Head of Disaster Management, stated, “The water levels thankfully did not reach the 1996 levels at the Calitzdorp Hot Springs. Although the water spilling from dams in the catchment matched the 1996 level, they did not peak simultaneously. This resulted in the river flow moving south in ‘waves’ rather than as a single, destructive giant wave.”

Over the course of the incident, 17 people were rescued. These include four (4) women, nine (9) men and 4 children.

STATUS OF ROADS
ROADS THAT REMAIN CLOSED

Roads are proactively closed as the water flows to the southern part of the District towards the Gouritz area.

HESSEQUA

1) De Draai Road – between Albertinia and Riversdale a structure is damaged at km 26.5 (Alternative route available both sides)

2) Slangrivier – Road that provide access to the first community in Slangrivier (Alternative route to both sides)

MOSSEL BAY

1) Muiskraal /Herbertsdale road – Gouritzriver in flood (closed since 06/06/2024)
(Alternative routes available to both sides)

OUDTSHOORN

1) Kleinspoort Road between , Kamanassie river in flood (No alternative route available)

2) Waaikraal, Olifantsrivier river in flood (Alternative route available both sides)

3) Le Rouxstasie, Olifantsriver in flood (Alternative route via Dysseldorp)

4) Middelplaas, Olifantsrivier river in flood (No alternative route available)

5) Vlakteplaas, Olifantsriver in flood, Road washaways (Locals only)

6) Oude Muragie, Debris on drift (No alternative route)

7) Vergelegen, River in flood gravel wash aways. Locals only (No alternative route available)

8) Paardebond, River in flood (Locals only with 4 x 4)

9) Slangrivier, rift approaches washed away (No alternative route available)

10) Potgieterspoort, Major damage on road (Alternative route available to both sides)

11) Volmoed, Rockfalls (Alternative routes to both sides)

12) Kammanassie dam /Rooiheuwel, River in flood (Alternative route via Dysselsdorp)

13) Rooiloop, Olifants river big waterhole over road
(Alternative routes to both sides)

14) Meiringspoort (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Via the N9, Willowmore from Beaufort West.

15) N12 between Oudtshoorn and De Rust where the road crosses the Nel’s river (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Access via the Langkloof road.

16) Volmoed Road due to rockfalls (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Access via the R328 between Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn.

17) Rooiheuwel Road (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Via Dysselsdorp.

GEORGE/WILDERNESS/UNIONDALE

1) Pietersrivier (Alternative route via Avontuur)

2) Vaalwater, Road washaways (No alternative route)

3) Kamanassie, River in flood (Locals only) (Alternative routes on both sides)

4) Toorwater, River in flood (Locals only)

5) DR1660 Joncksrust Road (or known as Kliprivier Road) (30km from Uniondale) due to rockfalls (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Road is not fully cut-off, but can follow an alternative route via Avontuur.

6) Prince Alfred Pass between Uniondale and Knysna due to rockfalls and flooding (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: No alternative route for this road.

7) Haarlem access on the west side is restricted (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Access possible from the east turn-off.

8) Oshoek, Approaches washed away. (No alternative route)

9) Gwaing, closed @ km 6.5 Structure washed away (Alternative routes on both sides)

KANNALAND

1) Gai se middelpad, Gamka river in flood (Alternative route available via Gamka west)

2) Jachtberg, Gamka river in flood (Alternative route available via Gamka west)

3) Doornkloof, Olifantsrivier river in flood (No alternative route available)

4) Vleirivier, Olifantsrivier river in flood (No alternative route available)

5) Middelpad, Olifantsrivier river in flood (No alternative route available)

ROADS OPENED AGAIN TODAY

OUDTSHOORN

1) DR1713/R328 adjacent to Raubenheimers Dam (enroute to Bergoord) – OPEN

2) R328 between Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn – OPEN

3) Swartberg Pass – OPEN

4) Cango Caves – OPEN (One lane)

MOSSEL BAY

1) Geelbeksvlei Road – OPEN

KNYSNA

1) Rheenendal Road off the N2 – OPEN

For more roads information, please contact: Japie Strydom at 083 629 0155 / Gert Verwey at 082 882 8886.

*STAY SAFE*

People in areas near rivers or those who are considering to cross low-water bridges or structures should avoid doing so at all costs. If a residence is prone to flooding, people should move to higher ground to ensure the safety of family members, pets, and livestock. Do not attempt to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters, as these can be deeper and faster-moving than what is assumed.

Report weather-related incidents to the Garden Route Emergency Call Centre on 044 805 5071.

Updates are posted to the GRDM Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/gardenroutedm

The next update is planned for 17h00 today, 6 June 2024.

Issued: GRDM Joint Operation Centre (JOC)

06 June 2024 Update 5: Garden Route Floods 07h00 update on 6 June 2024

Update 5: Garden Route Floods 07h00 update on 6 June 2024

Issued by the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Joint Operations Centre (JOC) at 07h15

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE

Humanitarian needs in areas affected by the current floods in the Garden Route district are being addressed by Gift of the Givers. To access relief offered by Gift of the Givers or if you’d like to contribute, kindly reach out to Mario Ferreira at 082 490 2752.

STATUS QUO

The GRDM’s JOC remains active at its Head Office in George. However, the water levels of the rivers are gradually decreasing. Gerhard Otto, GRDM Head of Disaster Management, stated, “The water levels thankfully did not reach the 1996 levels at the Calitzdorp Hot Springs. Although the water spilling from dams in the catchment matched the 1996 level, they did not peak simultaneously. This resulted in the river flow moving south in ‘waves’ rather than as a single, destructive giant wave.”

Over the course of the incident, 17 people were rescued. These include four (4) women, nine (9) men and 4 children.

STATUS OF ROADS
ROADS THAT REMAIN CLOSED

Roads are proactively closed as the water flows to the southern part of the Gouritz area.

OUDTSHOORN

1) Meiringspoort (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Via the N9, Willowmore from Beaufort West.

2) Swartberg Pass (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: No alternative route.

3) N12 between Oudtshoorn and De Rust where the road crosses the Nel’s river (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Access via the Langkloof road.

4) Volmoed Road due to rockfalls (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Access via the R328 between Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn.

5) Rooiheuwel Road (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Via Dysselsdorp.

6) R328 between Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn (closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: No alternative route.

7) DR1713/R328 adjacent to the Raubenheimers Dam (enroute to Bergoord) (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: No alternative route

MOSSEL BAY

1) Geelbeksvlei Road (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Use the Botlierskop Road or the R328 leading towards the N2.

KNYSNA

1) Rheenendal Road off the N2 (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Access Rheenendal via the Barrington Road off the N2. The other alternative is to access Rheenendal via the Seven Passes Road.

GEORGE/WILDERNESS/UNIONDALE

1) DR1660 Joncksrust Road (or known as Kliprivier Road) (30km from Uniondale) due to rockfalls (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Road is not fully cut-off, but can follow an alternative route via Avontuur.

2) Prince Alfred Pass between Uniondale and Knysna due to rockfalls and flooding (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: No alternative route for this road.

3) Haarlem access on the west side is restricted (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Access possible from the east turn-off.

ROADS OPENED AGAIN TODAY

OUDTSHOORN

1) One lane is open to the Cango Caves.

STAY SAFE

People in areas near rivers or those who are considering to cross low-water bridges or structures should avoid doing so at all costs. If a residence is prone to flooding, people should move to higher ground to ensure the safety of family members, pets, and livestock. Do not attempt to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters, as these can be deeper and faster-moving than what is assumed.

Report weather-related incidents to the Garden Route Emergency Call Centre on 044 805 5071.

Updates are posted to the GRDM Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/gardenroutedm

The next update is planned for 12h00 midday today, 6 June 2024.

Photo: Graph of hydrological data illustrating the levels of the Stompdrift and Kammanassie Dams (Source: Department of Water and Sanitation).

Photo: The Olifantsriver next to Dysselsdorp (Source: Oudtshoorn Municipality)

05 June 2024 Update 4: Garden Route Floods 18h00 update on 5 June 2024

Update 4: Garden Route Floods 18h00 update on 5 June 2024

Issued by the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Joint Operations Centre (JOC) at 18h00

The GRDM’s JOC remains activated at its Head Office in George because of persistent rainfall experienced in parts of the Western, North and Eastern Cape since 1 June 2024. People in areas near rivers or those who are considering to cross low-water bridges or structures should avoid doing so at all costs. If a residence is prone to flooding, people should move to higher ground to ensure the safety of family members, pets, and livestock.

Do not attempt to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters, as these can be deeper and faster-moving than what is assumed.

According to Gerhard Otto, the GRDM Head of Disaster Management, “the peak of the floods have not yet reached all areas in the Garden Route district. For the southern parts of the district, it is expected to only peak in the early hours tomorrow (6 June 2024). SAPS Border Police is stationed in Oudtshoorn, with a team on standby in Mossel Bay for any emerging rescue or recovery incidents”.

RESCUES, RECOVERIES & EVACUATIONS

To date, 17 people have been rescued.

– 11 People (3 women, 4 men and 4 children) rescued from Welgeluk in Oudtshoorn rescued with Pencil Duck.
– 6 People (1 woman, 5 men) rescued from the Meiringspoort Pass with a helicopter.

Guests at Calitzdorp Hot Springs have been evacuated because of the downflow of the Olifants River.

ROADS THAT REMAIN CLOSED

OUDTSHOORN

1) Meiringspoort (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Via the N9, Willowmore from Beaufort West.

2) Swartberg Pass (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: No alternative route.

3) N12 between Oudtshoorn and De Rust where the road crosses the Nel’s river (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Access via the Langkloof road.

4) DR1713/R328 adjacent to the Raubenheimers Dam (enroute to Bergoord) (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: No alternative route.

5) Volmoed Road due to rockfalls (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Access via the R328 between Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn.

6) The Cango Caves (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: No alternative route.

7) Rooiheuwel Road (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Via Dysselsdorp.

8) R328 between Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn (closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: No alternative route.

MOSSEL BAY

1) Geelbeksvlei Road (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Use the Botlierskop Road or the R328 leading towards the N2.

KNYSNA

1) Rheenendal Road off the N2 (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Access Rheenendal via the Barrington Road off the N2. The other alternative is to access Rheenendal via the Seven Passes Road.

GEORGE/WILDERNESS/UNIONDALE

1) DR1660 Joncksrust Road (or known as Kliprivier Road) (30km from Uniondale) due to rockfalls (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Road is not fully cut-off, but can follow an alternative route via Avontuur.

2) Prince Alfred Pass between Uniondale and Knysna due to rockfalls and flooding (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: No alternative route for this road.

3) Haarlem access on the west side is restricted (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
Alternative Route: Access possible from the east turn-off.

ROADS OPENED AGAIN TODAY

MOSSEL BAY

1) DR1532 Vleesbay Road (opened again before 15h00 on 05/06/2024)

*ADDITIONAL DETAILS*

Report weather-related incidents to the Garden Route Emergency Call Centre on 044 805 5071.

Updates are posted to the GRDM Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/gardenroutedm

RELIEF FOR HUMANITARIAN NEEDS
Humanitarian needs in areas affected by the current flood in the Garden Route District are being assessed by Gift of the Givers.
Please contact Mr Mario Ferreira at 082 490 2752 if you have any urgent needs or want to make a donation.

The next update is planned for 07h00 tomorrow, 6 June 2024.

Feature Image: Calitzdorp Hotsprings flood image

05 June 2024 Update 3: Garden Route Floods 15h00 update on 5 June 2024

Update 3: Garden Route Floods 15h00 update on 5 June 2024

Issued by the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Joint Operations Centre (JOC) at 15h00

The GRDM’s JOC remains activated at its Head Office in George because of persistent rainfall experienced in parts of the Western, North and Eastern Cape since 1 June 2024. People in areas near rivers or those who are considering to cross low-water bridges or structures should avoid doing so at all costs. If a residence is prone to flooding, people should move to higher ground to ensure the safety of family members, pets, and livestock.

Do not attempt to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters, as these can be deeper and faster-moving than what is assumed.

According to Gerhard Otto, the GRDM Head of Disaster Management, “the peak of the floods have not yet reached all areas in the Garden Route district. For the southern parts of the district, it is expected to only peak in the early hours tomorrow (6 June 2024). SAPS Border Police is stationed in Oudtshoorn, with a team on standby in Mossel Bay for any emerging rescue or recovery incidents”.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLANS

Before the GRDM JOC was activated, representatives from the National Department of Water and Sanitation informed several stakeholders about the anticipated floods. These stakeholders included the Water Users Associations, the National Water Resources Infrastructure Southern Operations Management, and downstream residents such as farmers and farm workers. “There is an Emergency Preparedness Plan for each dam in South Africa, which contains contact details of stakeholders and this greatly assists us in responding to emerging risks and disasters,” said Otto.

RESCUES, RECOVERIES & EVACUATIONS

The South African Police Services (SAPS) Diving Unit and the Red Cross Air Mercy Service are currently assisting with rescue operations of people in the region. To date, 17 people have been rescued.

* 11 People (3 women, 4 men and 4 children) rescued from Welgeluk in Oudtshoorn rescued with Pencil Duck.
* 6 People (1 woman, 5 men) rescued from the Meiringspoort Pass with a helicopter.

Calitzdorp Hot Springs has been evacuated because of the downflow of the Olifants River.

ROADS OPENED AGAIN

MOSSEL BAY

1) DR1532 Vleesbay Road (opened again before 15h00 on 05/06/2024)

ROADS REMAINING CLOSED

OUDTSHOORN

1) Meiringspoort (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
2) Swartberg Pass (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
3) N12 between Oudtshoorn and De Rust where the road crosses the Nel’s river – use the Langkloof route as an alternative (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
4) DR1713/R328 adjacent to the Raubenheimers Dam (enroute to Bergoord) (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
5) Volmoed Road due to rockfalls (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
6) The Cango Caves (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
7) Rooiheuwel Road (remains closed since 05/06/2024)

MOSSEL BAY

1) Geelbeksvlei Road (remains closed since 04/06/2024)

KNYSNA

1) Rheenendal Road off the N2 (remains closed since 04/06/2024)

GEORGE/WILDERNESS/UNIONDALE

1) DR1660 Joncksrust Road (or known as Kliprivier Road) (30km from Uniondale) due to rockfalls (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
2) Prince Alfred Pass between Uniondale and Knysna due to rockfalls and flooding (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
3) Haarlem access on the west side is restricted, access possible from the east turn-off (remains closed since 05/06/2024)

Stompdrift Dam is overflowing (Source: National Department of Water and Sanitation)

Report weather-related incidents to the Garden Route Emergency Call Centre on 044 805 5071.

Updates are posted to the GRDM Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/gardenroutedm

The next update is planned for 18h00 today, 5 June 2024.

Feature Image: Photo of the damage to the road at Nels River (Oude Muragie) a few kilometers before De Rust. Provincial workers are already repairing the road (Source: Oudtshoorn Municipality)

05 June 2024 Update 2: Garden Route Floods 12h00 update on 5 June 2024

Update 2: Garden Route Floods 12h00 update on 5 June 2024

Issued by the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Joint Operations Centre (JOC) at 12h00

The GRDM activated its JOC at its Head Office in George because of persistent rainfall experienced in parts of the Western, North and Eastern Cape since 1 June 2024. Although the rainfall patterns for the Garden Route region was not exceptionally high over the past few days, several dams are still overflowing because of rivers that flow into them. The Stompdrift, Kammanassie, Koos Raubenheimer and Gamkapoort Dams are overflowing, collectively pushing more water into the Olifants River.

KEEP SAFE

People in areas near rivers or those who are considering to cross low-water bridges or structures should avoid doing so at all costs. If a residence is prone to flooding, people should move to higher ground to ensure the safety of family members, pets, and livestock.

Do not attempt to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters, as these can be deeper and faster-moving than what is assumed.

RESCUES, RECOVERIES & EVACUATIONS

The South African Police Services (SAPS) Diving Unit and the Red Cross Air Mercy Service are currently assisting with rescue operations of people in the region. To date, 17 people have been rescued.

– 11 People (3 women, 4 men and 4 children) rescued from Welgeluk in Oudtshoorn rescued with Pencil Duck.
– 6 People (1 woman, 5 men) rescued from the Meiringspoort Pass with a helicopter.

Calitzdorp Hot Springs has been evacuated because of the downflow of the Olifants River.

ROADS CLOSED

OUDTSHOORN

1) Meiringspoort (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
2) Swartberg Pass (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
3) N12 between Oudtshoorn and De Rust where the road crosses the Nel’s river – use the Langkloof route as an alternative (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
4) DR1713/R328 adjacent to the Raubenheimers Dam (enroute to Bergoord) (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
5) Volmoed Road due to rockfalls (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
6) The Cango Caves (remains closed since 05/06/2024)

MOSSEL BAY

1) Geelbeksvlei Road (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
2) DR1532 Vleesbay Road (remains closed since 05/06/2024)

KNYSNA

1) Rheenendal Road off the N2 (remains closed since 04/06/2024)

GEORGE/WILDERNESS/UNIONDALE

1) DR1660 Joncksrust Road (or known as Kliprivier Road) (30km from Uniondale) due to rockfalls (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
2) Prince Alfred Pass between Uniondale and Knysna due to rockfalls and flooding (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
3) Haarlem access on the west side is restricted, access possible from the east turn-off (remains closed since 05/06/2024)

Report weather-related incidents to the Garden Route Emergency Call Centre on 044 805 5071.

Updates are posted to the GRDM Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/gardenroutedm

The next update is planned for 15h00 today, 5 June 2024.

Pictures: Calitzdorp Hot Springs (Elmo Labuscagne)