KOUGA – Kouga Local Municipality is currently responding to widespread flooding following heavy rainfall recorded overnight, with approximately 100mm of rain impacting various parts of the region.
The widespread flooding follows the South African Weather Service’s Level 8 warning for disruptive rain in the Kouga and Kou-Kamma areas, issued on 4 May.
The warning is valid from 5 May at 10:00 until 7 May at 23:59, with forecasts at the time indicating significant rainfall that could lead to widespread flooding.
According to the municipality’s Facebook post on 6 May, Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman is on the ground together with municipal response teams, actively coordinating relief efforts and conducting on-site assessments in affected areas.
Municipal disaster response, technical, and emergency teams have been fully mobilised and are prioritising waterlogged areas, where assistance is being provided to residents.
The municipality has indicated that evacuation operations are underway, with affected individuals being safely relocated to designated municipal halls.
The municipality’s response is focused on three key priorities:
- Protecting human life through swift evacuations and emergency support
- Safeguarding residential properties from further flood damage
- Preserving critical road infrastructure to ensure accessibility for emergency services and to minimise long-term economic impact
The municipality has said that continuous monitoring of water levels and infrastructure is underway, with teams working around the clock to stabilise affected areas and prevent further damage.
“Residents are strongly urged to remain vigilant, avoid flooded roads and low-lying bridges, and comply with all safety directives issued by authorities,” the municipality said.
The municipality has indicated that at this stage, assessments are ongoing, and the full extent of the damage is still being determined.
Further updates will be communicated as more verified information becomes available.
“Kouga Local Municipality remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents during this challenging time,” the municipality said.
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