Watch: Storm surge engulfs Victoria Bay beachfront properties
Foamy storm waves have flooded homes near George, with high tide expected to worsen damage and force further road closures.
Beach houses at the picturesque seaside resort of Victoria Bay near George were drenched in foamy waves this afternoon as the stormy ocean wreaked havoc on the small coastal town.
George Herald reports dramatic video footage shows many homes built on the seafront promenade being flooded as powerful waves pelt the properties, public toilets, and other municipal buildings, including a popular beachfront restaurant.
The beach is completely obscured by churning waves and thick foam.
Watch the video:
High tide warning
But the worst may still be yet to come. High tide is expected at 19:00, which is forecast to bring even higher seas and more foam.
The entrance road to the popular surfing destination has become inaccessible, prompting George Municipality’s law enforcement and traffic management officials to close it to all traffic.
Damage and closures
Many of the affected properties are holiday homes, guesthouses and rentals, with damage estimated to run into the millions of rands.
When George Herald visited Herolds Bay this afternoon – a seaside town which also falls under the George municipal area – the beach and homes were largely unaffected by the inclement weather.
However, with high tide approaching at 19:00, the situation could change, and both access roads to the popular village have already been closed.
Weather warning downgraded
A silver lining is that the South African Weather Service has downgraded its weather warning from Level 8 to Level 6 for tomorrow (May 7).
Also watch: Cut-off low brings snow, floods and road closures across SA
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Read original story on www.georgeherald.com
