A group of 72 schoolchildren from Aliwal North Primary School and 10 adults are stranded at Cango Mountain Resort near Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape.

According to Aurelia Mle, liaison officer for the Oudtshoorn Local Municipality, the weekend’s intense storm caused the Le Roux River, running through the heart of the resort, to overflow and cut off entry and exit routes.

Yesterday she said that, weather permitting, the group should be able to safely cross the river today.

In response to the challenging circumstances, arrangements were made to dispatch a helicopter to provide much-needed food and water supplies to the group.

“Thankfully, there are no casualties. Both children and adults are in good health, but they are temporarily unable to leave the resort,” said Mle.

Oudtshoorn Municipal Disaster Management delivered emergency supplies to Air Mercy Services for drop-off at the resort yesterday.

“We express our deep appreciation for the quick and co-ordinated efforts of all involved, especially the helicopter crew.

“Disaster management will continue to monitor the situation closely, and will provide further updates as the conditions improve and travel becomes safe. Our thoughts are with the schoolchildren and teachers as they await the opportunity to return to their homes. We extend our gratitude to all parties involved,” said Mle.