The death toll linked to the recent severe weather conditions in the Western Cape has risen to 10 as emergency response teams continue recovery operations across flood-stricken communities.
Dwayne Evans, a spokesperson for the Western Cape Department for Health and Wellness, confirmed this devastating news on Thursday (14 May) morning.
“Our sincere condolences go to the families, loved ones, and communities affected by these tragic losses.”
The deaths were reported in the following areas: Knysna (1); Wynberg in Cape Town (1); George (1); Worcester (1); Genadendal (1); Klaarstroom (1); Hermanus area (1) and
Rawsonville area (3).
This tragedy comes after two cold fronts battered parts of the province from Sunday (10 May) to Tuesday (11 May), bringing heavy rainfall, flooding, strong winds and widespread infrastructure damage. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) alerted the public on Friday (8 May) of the expected impact as a result of the severe weather conditions. SAWS particularly indicated that the City of Cape Town, Cape Winelands and Overberg regions have the likelihood of severe flooding.
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Emergency teams are still hard at work and busy with recoveries and assisting where assistance is needed.
“We also extend our deepest appreciation to the emergency, rescue, healthcare, disaster management, law enforcement and municipal teams who continue to respond under extremely difficult conditions. Their efforts are saving lives, supporting affected communities and helping to keep essential services going during this difficult period,” added Evans.
In the meantime nine healthcare workers from the Western Cape Department for Health and Wellness were reunited with their families on Wednesday (13 May) after they were stranded in the Koue Bokkeveld region close to Ceres in the Cape Winelands. All nine provide healthcare services at the Op-Die-Berg-Clinic.
“This was a traumatic experience for our team, but the community from Op Die Berg stepped in and ensured their safety, showing that during a crisis, there is always hope, generosity and care. With the support of the community, our Emergency Medical Service team, and RoadMac, the staff were safely reunited with their families on Wednesday 13 May,” says Sandra Maritz, a spokesperson for the department.
Maritz says they are especially grateful for Rev. Albie Steenkamp and his wife Ilse Steenkamp of the Op Die Berg Dutch Reformed Church who opened their home to the healthcare workers and assisted with accommodation at the Skurweberg Senior Secondary School hostel.
“I reached out to the community for donations. We received various items, and someone even prepared fish and chips for them. It really was a pleasure serving them. I am new on the Ceres Hospital Board, so it only made sense for us and the community to help. It was a privilege to care for our ‘medical children’ who serve daily in the clinic and on farms,” says Rev Steenkamp.
When the weather started to calm and clear up and it was safe to leave the area, the healthcare workers were escorted out and safely reunited with their loved ones on Wednesday.
“The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness sincerely thanks Rev Steenkamp, Skurweberg Senior Secondary School, local businesses and the broader Op Die Berg community for stepping in during a time of need. Their compassion and willingness to act exemplify the true spirit of Ubuntu and the strength of our rural communities.”
