KOUGA – The Kouga Municipality has issued an urgent evacuation order for the Gamtoos Valley as the Kouga Dam has exceeded full capacity and is currently at 113%, resulting in a serious flood risk to surrounding communities.

The evacuation order came after the region has continued to face heavy rains and severe weather conditions following the South African Weather Service’s Level 8 warning for disruptive rain in the Kouga and Kou-Kamma areas, valid from 5 May at 10:00 until 7 May at 23:59.

Residents in the following areas are requested to evacuate:

• Kingsway Village
• Big Fish
• Gamtoos Mouth Resort
• Ferry Hotel
• All low-lying areas in the Gamtoos Valley

Evacuation shelters have been opened at:

• Katrina Felix Hall (Thornhill)
• Loerie Community Hall

The municipality has strongly advised farmers to relocate livestock, farming equipment, machinery and vehicles urgently to safer areas to avoid severe flood damage.

“Please avoid all river crossings and flooded roads. Emergency teams remain on high alert and residents are requested to cooperate with all evacuation instructions,” the municipality said.

“Your safety comes first. Do not attempt to drive or walk through flowing water,” the municipality said.

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