Garden Route officials established an integrated, multi-sectoral and multidisciplinary response to manage heavy rains and winds expected in the region.
Gerhard Otto, the Head of Disaster Management of the Garden Route District Municipality, shared details of an alert issued by the weather service for Wednesday into Thursday.
The George Municipality said it activated its contingency plans for most of its services, including the Disaster Management department, Community Services, Planning and Human Settlements, Traffic Services, Civil Engineering Services, Electrotechnical Services and Technical Services.
The Civil Engineering Services and Community Services teams inspected and cleared high-risk areas, including streets, stormwater infrastructure, and drainage systems, to minimise flood risks and improve water flow during heavy rainfall.
The region is expected to receive between 50 mm and 90 mm of rainfall in two days.
Between 150 mm and 200 mm is possible over parts of the Central Karoo and western Garden Route.
Browen Johnson, Mayor of George, urged residents to play their part in reducing flood risks.
“Municipal teams are preparing for the forecast weather conditions, but community cooperation remains essential. We urge residents to clear gutters and drains around their homes, secure loose outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall, and remain alert to official warnings and updates.”
Similarly authorities in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, also activated services to be able to respond to adverse weather, also at level 8, including the possibility of snow in the mountains.
Sithembiso Soyaya, director of communications in the metro, appealed to residents to exercise caution and remain vigilant throughout this week.
He also called on residents to rely on information sourced on official platforms for updates, while the Municipality continues to monitor conditions closely.
An establishment in KwaZulu Natal, known as the Southern Drakensburg, reminded visitors and snow-chasers to be mindful and respectful.
The area is expecting lower-level snow.
“Do not enter private property — even for that perfect snow selfie! Climbing fences or crossing farmland is not only trespassing, but can damage essential infrastructure and cause stress for farmers and their livestock. Let’s all help keep the Southern Drakensberg a welcoming place for everyone.”
Picture: Luc Hosten, Sedgefield resident.