Damage caused by floods, is estimated at R170.3 million.
The District said roads, bridges, power lines, stormwater and buildings, were affected.
A SANSA satellite analysis mapped ∼261.57 hectares of flooded areas, with 2.04 hectares of these, at Hankey and low-lying agricultural zones.
As a result, the Sarah Baartman District Municipality declared a Local State of Disaster, following a level 8 warning on the 5-7 May 2026.
Urgent evacuation orders for low-lying areas were activated once the Gamtoos River and Kouga Dam hit 113-119% capacity.
Affected areas are Kingsway Village, Big Fish, Gamtoos Mouth Resort, Ferry Hotel.
Temporary shelters are at Katrina Felix Hall in Thornhill and Loerie Community Hall.
Rescue operations were conducted by the NSRI, SAPS, EMS, Kouga Fire and Rescue coordinated rescues at Kingsway Resort where 40+ people/animals were trapped.
Picture: Mayor Hattingh Bornmann.