The Western Cape Education Department says schools have opened for the third quarter, amid adverse weather conditions. Over the past few days, the severe weather conditions have led to damage at 29 schools. Children had to brave the cold, wet and windy conditions to return to classrooms today.
Schools have opened for the third quarter, amid adverse weather conditions
Meanwhile, workers from the City’s Urban Mobility Directorate, are working to clear blocked drains, while heavy rain and strong winds pummel parts of the province.
MMC Rob Quintas yesterday visited Khayelitsha and Cravenby to assess storm damage. Flooding has occurred in dozens of informal settlements.
Fresh flooding has been reported
Amid the heavy downpours, the City says its Disaster Management officials, alongside volunteers, are on hand, to assist in communities, where needed.
Spokesperson Sonica Laegan said this morning, that fresh flooding has been reported in Khayelitsha, Joe Slovo Park in Milnerton, Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, Nomzamo in Strand, Mfuleni, Driftsands, Masiphumelele, Du Noon and Gugulethu.
At the same time, the South African Weather Service has issued more weather warnings for today and tomorrow.
A second cold front is making landfall today
Among them, is a Yellow Level 4 warning for disruptive rain leading to damage of roads and bridges over the West Coast, northern Cape Winelands and the western Overberg.
MORE ABOUT: Animal shelter appeals for homes
An Orange level 6 warning is in place for disruptive rain leading to flooding and possible mudslides over the City of Cape Town, as well as the Drakenstein and Stellenbosch municipalities.
More heavy rain, over the next couple of hours
A second cold front is making landfall today. It will bring more heavy rain, over the next couple of hours.
Damage to infrastructure is still being assessed. It’s not clear yet, how many people have been affected.
Widespread disruptions and damage
The City, Overberg, Cape Winelands and West Coast areas have been hardest hit. The Provincial Government is working with the City and the National Human Settlements Department to address the immediate needs of people who have lost their homes.
At the same time, authorities have reiterated calls to residents and motorists to proceed with caution.
Flooding, fallen trees, electricity outages and road closures
Meanwhile, the Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha has appealed to the public to adopt dogs, as the inclement weather is not ideal for these pets. Traffic in the Eastern Cape has closed the R-58 Barkly Pass between Barkly East and Elliot. Thick snow has piled up on the road. Overnight, temperatures plummeted to below zero.
