GQEBERHA – Heavy rainfall across Nelson Mandela Bay has disrupted businesses and schools, with several factories and offices impacted and schools closed as a precaution due to ongoing severe weather conditions.
The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber says the impact on the local economy has been significant, with multiple businesses reporting flooding damage and operational interruptions.
“The current heavy rains and flooding have impacted the operations of many businesses around Nelson Mandela Bay with a number reporting flooding and damage to their factories, offices and warehouses,” said CEO Denise van Huyssteen.
She added that while some major manufacturers were able to continue operating, others experienced staffing challenges or were forced to temporarily close.
“Some manufacturers have opted to close their factory doors from this afternoon and businesses whose operations allow for remote working, have opted to do this until the adverse weather risks have subsided,” van Huyssteen said.
Schools closed
School notices and statements shared on social media confirm that some schools across the district are closed today (Wednesday, 6 May) and tomorrow (Thursday, 7 May) following severe weather warnings issued by authorities.
Hoërskool Pearson High School principal Haldane Pienaar said the closure followed official instruction from education authorities.
“We have just been informed by the Department of Education that all schools within the Nelson Mandela Bay district have to close tomorrow, Wednesday, 6 May. This is due to the severe weather conditions and warnings issued,” Pienaar said.
He added that the school will reassess conditions before reopening.
“At this stage, we will assess the situation for Thursday and communicate this to all stakeholders during the course of tomorrow,” he said.
Clarendon Park Primary School principal Derryk Jordan said the decision prioritised safety amid the adverse weather.
“With regards to the severe weather that we are currently experiencing and in light of the guidance received from the Department of Basic Education, we have decided that it will be in the best interests of the safety of all members of the Clarries Family to proceed as follows,” Jordan said.
“Attendance at school tomorrow will be optional – no new work will be covered and pupils will engage in revision activities,” he said.
Jordan added that arrangements would be reviewed ahead of Friday.
“We will re-assess the situation regarding Thursday, 7 May during the course of tomorrow,” he said.
Linkside High School and Westering Primary School confirmed on its social media pages it would be closed on Wednesday and Thursday.
Addo Road flooded
Meanwhile, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality says response teams remain on site at the Addo Road (R335) near the train bridge in Motherwell following reports of flooding in the area.
A water truck is actively pumping out excess water to improve drainage and restore safer driving conditions.
Motorists have been warned that light motor vehicles should avoid the route due to unsafe flood levels, while heavy vehicles and light delivery vehicles may proceed with extreme caution.
“Motorists are urged to reduce speed, maintain safe following distances, and remain alert to response personnel working in the area,” the municipality said.
Authorities say the situation is being closely monitored, with further updates expected as conditions improve.
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