Severe weather alert issued for Western Cape

Significant rain is expected to affect the eastern parts of the Overberg district tomorrow afternoon (17 November), spreading to the coastal areas of the Garden Route District from late evening into Wednesday morning.

The accumulated rainfall is likely to reach between 40 to 50mm over the period due to the strong southerly to south-easterly winds aided by an intense upper air system.

Localised flooding can be expected in susceptible formal and informal settlements and roads.

Increased travel times and motor vehicle accidents may occur along with difficult driving conditions on dirt roads. Localised and short term disruption to essential services may also occur in places.

If possible stay indoors and off the roads, avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above your ankles. If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon it and climb to higher ground.

In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level. Take caution driving on a roads covered by water. Listen to the radio or TV for warnings and obey the instructions from disaster management officers.