To deal with the excessive rainfall on June 1 and 2, which has caused widespread flooding across the Kouga region, inundating several streets and homes, the Kouga Municipality has released a statement indicating that they are taking urgent measures to assist affected residents and manage the crisis.
Hard-hit areas
- St Francis Bay, Zwelitsha has seen several homes flooded. Affected residents will be relocated to the community hall for safety. Flooding has also impacted other areas in St Francis Bay, including Tarragona Road.
- In Aston Bay, Shearwater Drive and parts of Dolphin Drive are completely submerged, with water levels reaching up to window height in some places.
- Jeffreys Bay is also experiencing significant flooding particularly in Pellsrus and parts of Da Gama Road.
- In Humansdorp, Golf Course is flooded and roads in 7de Laan are waterlogged. Streets in Arcadia are also underwater.
- Tjoksville in Thornhill has reported a few flooded houses, with affected residents to be moved to the community hall. Adam Street has also experienced flooding, affecting several homes.
In the statement, it said that motorists are advised to proceed with caution when travelling on the causeway between Aston Bay and Paradise Beach and to avoid it, if possible. Kouga Law Enforcement will monitor the situation.
It further said that residents are advised to avoid the R102 behind Thornhill due to rocks on the road and to use the N2 instead.
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Response and relief measures
The statement said that the municipality is prioritising the relocation of affected residents to community halls where necessary.
“Efforts are underway to clear waterlogged roads to allow residents to access their homes safely,” the statement said.
“Ensuring functionality of infrastructure, including pump stations and electricity supply, is a key focus.”
How residents can assist
The statement said that residents can assist by donating blankets and mattresses, which can be dropped off at the fire stations in Humansdorp and St Francis Bay.
Report
Residents are encouraged to report flooding and excessive water issues to the Kouga Municipality Call Centre WhatsApp number at 081 760 9183.
Alternatively, they can contact the Kouga Control Room at 042 291 0250 or the Kouga Incident Command Centre at 071 883 4081.
