South Africa’s authorities report damage, displacement due to severe weather conditions
Date
7/10/2024 3:19:44 AM
(MENAFN) Authorities in South Africa have reported significant damage and displacement following severe weather conditions, with strong winds and heavy rains wreaking havoc across the Cape Town region. The area has been battered by multiple cold fronts, resulting in rare heavy snowfalls in mountainous regions.
According to the Western Cape government, the impact has been substantial, with 82 schools sustaining damage and five forced to remain closed due to safety concerns on Tuesday. The storms have caused extensive destruction, including the blowing away of roof sheeting by powerful wind gusts. Over the weekend, nearly 4,000 people were left homeless as approximately 1,000 homes and structures were destroyed in Khayelitsha, an impoverished township.
Local authorities have reported additional challenges such as localized flooding, fallen trees blocking roads, electricity outages, and the closure of several thoroughfares. Furthermore, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) conducted a successful rescue operation on Monday, saving 18 crew members from a cargo ship that had listed severely in rough seas off the Atlantic coast. All crew members, who are Filipino nationals, were rescued from a life raft by nearby cargo vessels.
Looking ahead, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings of further disruptive weather patterns, predicting continued heavy rain that could lead to flooding and potential mudslides in the province on Wednesday and Thursday. These forecasts underscore ongoing concerns for public safety and infrastructure resilience amid the persistent inclement weather affecting the region.
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