Severe weather warning issued for Western Cape – 11 April

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe weather warning for the Western Cape.

Heavy rain is expected across large parts of the Western Cape starting late on Saturday (11 April) and lasting until Sunday morning.

Severe weather warning: Heavy rain expected

Members of the public are advised that heavy rain is expected in the following areas:

• The City of Cape Town,
• Drakenstein,
• Stellenbosch,
• Theewaterskloof and
• Overstrand Municipalities.

The weather system moving through the Western Cape is also expected to bring strong winds between Table Bay and Cape Agulhas on Saturday evening, and over the Breede Valley and the Central Karoo on Sunday.

The Western Cape Government have warned of the possibility of flash floods.

“The public and small stock farmers are advised that the heavy rain may lead to localised flooding,” a Western Cape Government media notice reads.

“In addition, gale force north-westerly winds (65 to 75km/h) are expected between Table Bay and Cape Agulhas early tomorrow morning moderating from late morning. While strong interior winds (55-62km/h) are expected over the Breede Valley and the Central Karoo tomorrow.”

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 further challenges during this time of lockdown.

“Some of the associated risks during bad weather like this includes mudslides and informal settlement fires. Provincial as well as Municipal Disaster Management Centres are already activated for the ongoing COVID-19 situation and will remain fully operational, ready to assist in the event of a problem.”

Bredell has urged the public 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.”

How can I prepare for a flood or severe weather?

• 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.

Further tips provided by the South African Weather Service

• (When moving around outdoors) dress in warm, brightly coloured wet weather clothing.
• If caught unawares by a strong wind, barricade windows with wooded panels or strips (or furniture if needs be).
• If ordered to evacuate, do so immediately and in an orderly fashion. Listen to the radio or TV for warnings and obey the instructions from disaster management officers.