Batten down the hatches in the Cape Winelands and the Overberg. That’s the call from local authorities with adverse weather expected in those regions from tomorrow, Thursday, into Friday.
It has issued a Level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall over parts of the province, particularly the Overberg and Garden Route districts, where rainfall accumulations of between 30 mm and 45 mm are expected.
Batten down the hatches in the Winelands and Overberg
The Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, is asking people to take the necessary precautions ahead of the expected adverse weather.
In addition, strong winds are forecast over parts of the Central Karoo, Little Karoo and Cape Winelands, while hazardous sea conditions and high waves are expected along much of the coastline.
Residents are also asked to exercise caution as the province prepares for cold, wet and windy conditions from tomorrow night. He says the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall over parts of the province.
Weather warning: Level 4 warning for disruptive rainfall
MEC Anton Bredell says rainfall accumulations of between 30 mm and 45 mm are expected over the Overberg and the Garden Route districts. There’s also a warning for strong winds over parts of the Cape Winelands and the Central and Little Karoo. If you are near the coast, expect hazardous sea conditions and high waves. He says officials from the Provincial Disaster Management Centre will closely monitor the situation. They also remain in continuous contact with SAWS to assess any changes in the forecast.
The Provincial Disaster Management Centre will closely monitor the situation
MEC Bredell added that the Provincial Government remains in close contact with municipalities and emergency response agencies to ensure readiness should conditions deteriorate.
He is encouraging residents to follow some safety tips:
- “Avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges and low-water crossings.
- “Stay away from rivers, streams and stormwater channels during heavy rainfall.
- “Secure loose outdoor items that may be affected by strong winds.
- “Exercise caution near the coastline, where rough seas and high waves are expected.
- “Follow updates issued by the Western Cape Government, local municipalities and SAWS.
Residents asked to prepare for cold, wet and windy conditions
Bredell earlier this week attended a Joint Operations Committee meeting at the Provincial Disaster Management Centre. This is where the South African Weather Service (SAWS) briefed the JOC on the predicted weather. He says, as weather systems can change rapidly, residents are urged to remain alert and monitor official communication channels for further updates.
