Floods: How to minimize the impact of severe weather conditions

The South African Local Government Association (Salga) has called on municipalities across the country to maintain preparedness as intense weather is expected to bring cold, wet, windy conditions and flooding. Some areas are expected to see rainfall accumulations between 100 and 200 millimeters, widespread and disruptive rainfall, flooding, damaging winds, severe thunderstorms, and snowfall in high-lying areas and dangerous coastal wave conditions. Coastal regions and surrounding areas nearby, particularly in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, Northwest and certain parts of the Northern Cape, along with flood-prone and low-lying regions, are more likely to be impacted by severe weather conditions.

Severe weather conditions may pose many challenges to residents affected by factors that are out of their control, which may result in: Salga has advised municipalities to place the relevant departments on high alert and to ensure coordinated, prepared responses. Disaster Management Centres have also been tasked with activating monitoring and coordination mechanisms while maintaining close contact with provincial disaster management authorities. Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services are to ensure personnel and equipment are ready to respond to flooding, storm damage and rescue incidents.

Infrastructure and Technical Services are encouraged to clear stormwater drains, inspect critical infrastructure and prepare rapid-response teams for potential damage. The Human Settlements and Community Services should identify vulnerable communities and ensure temporary shelter facilities are ready, if required. Traffic and law enforcement services are to monitor high-risk routes.

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manage road closures and ensure public safety. Municipal Communications Units should share verified warnings from the South African Weather Service, and safety messages through official channels. Members of the public have been cautioned to avoid crossing flooded public roads and swollen rivers.

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