Heavy rains have brought devastation to the OR Tambo district in South Africa's Eastern Cape, causing widespread flooding and disruptions to daily activities. The SA Weather Service had warned of localised flooding, power supply disruptions, and traffic disruptions due to the heavy rains. The OR Tambo District Municipality confirmed that severe flooding had occurred across its local municipalities, with several areas severely affected.
The municipality's disaster management teams are on the ground assessing the extent of the damage, identifying affected households, and determining the immediate needs of communities. The teams are working to provide a comprehensive update on the damage and necessary interventions once the information has been consolidated. The municipality has urged communities to remain vigilant and avoid crossing flooded rivers and low-lying bridges.
Among the affected areas are Mqanduli, Buntingville, and Ngqeleni, as well as Green Farms in Port St. Johns. Mqanduli was also among the areas affected, along with several communities around Qumbu and Tsolo in the Kumkani Mhlontlo Local Municipality. The heavy rains have disrupted access to certain areas, and the municipality is working to coordinate disaster response efforts.
OR Tambo mayor Mesuli Ngqondwana assured communities that disaster management teams have been deployed to assess the impact of the heavy rains. He stated that the teams are working to identify the needs of affected communities and provide necessary support. The municipality has warned residents to avoid crossing flooded rivers, streams, and low-lying bridges, and to exercise caution on the roads.
The SA Weather Service had issued a warning on Monday, advising road users to be cautious and increase travel times. The service also warned of localised disruptions to power supply and communications, as well as traffic disruptions. Residents were advised to listen for regular weather updates and monitor weather conditions.
In Port St. Johns, the municipality has cautioned residents on the current weather conditions, urging them to avoid going on unnecessary travel and to report flooded roads, bridges, and other weather-related incidents. Fishermen and boaters have also been warned to avoid the sea due to the rough weather conditions.
Fortunately, there has been no indication of injuries, fatalities, or serious damage to property and infrastructure. The municipality remains committed to coordinating disaster response efforts and ensuring that the needs of affected communities are identified and addressed.
Key points
- The OR Tambo district's disaster management teams are on the ground assessing the damage caused by heavy rains.
- Several areas, including Mqanduli and Port St. Johns, have been severely affected by the flooding.
- The municipality has urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid crossing flooded rivers and low-lying bridges.
