KOUGA — Kouga Local Municipality is currently experiencing widespread heavy rainfall, resulting in flooding and significant disruption across the region.
The heavy rain follows 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.
According to the municipality, on the morning of 6 May, waterlogged roads have been reported across all areas, with debris such as rocks and fallen trees obstructing routes.
In addition, numerous potholes have re-emerged due to the persistent rain.
While the road to St Francis Bay and Paradise Beach remains open, the municipality has urged motorists to exercise extreme caution as surfaces are slippery.
Furthermore, the Kabeljous Channel is currently blocked, and the Seekoei River Estuary is at full capacity and under close monitoring by municipal teams.
The causeway remains safe at this stage.
The municipality has indicated that strong winds have caused damage to both formal and informal housing structures in Upper and Lower Golf Course areas, as well as KwaNomzamo, where several roofs have been blown off.
Meanwhile, in St Francis Bay, water pooling has been reported on road surfaces, while mudslides have occurred in Sea Vista.
“Residents, particularly children, are strongly warned to avoid these hazardous areas,” the municipality said.
“Coastal residents are advised that high seas are expected and are urged to remain vigilant,” the municipality said.
Further reports confirm that Stofwolk outside Hankey and Patensie has been severely affected by flooding, according to the municipality.
“Municipal roads and stormwater teams have been deployed across Kouga to respond to the situation. Excavation equipment will be utilised in severely affected muddy areas. The protection of critical municipal infrastructure, including substations, remains a top priority,” the municipality said.
Furthermore, the municipality said that on the night of 5 May, four residents in Kruisfontein were safely evacuated.
Important safety warnings:
- Motorists must drive with extreme caution on all roads due to flooding, debris, and slippery surfaces.
- Residents must obey all road warning signs and instructions from law enforcement officials.
- Children are strictly warned to stay away from flooded areas and mudslide zones.
- Residents living along the coastal belt must remain alert as high seas are expected.
- Communities are advised to avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas.
- Residents in low-lying or flood-prone areas should be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen.
- Do not attempt to cross flooded areas.
The municipality has indicated that various parts of Kouga are currently without electricity due to the severe weather conditions being experienced.
“Our teams are on the ground and working around the clock to restore power as soon as possible, despite the cold and wet conditions they are facing,” the municipality said.
Furthermore, the municipality has notified Eskom of faults on Eskom’s line, and Eskom is on site attending to the issue.
“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and kindly ask for your patience and understanding as restoration efforts continue,” the municipality said.
Evacuation:
All community halls are open to accommodate displaced residents, with the exception of Pellsrus Hall, which is currently undergoing maintenance.
The municipality has advised evacuees in the Kouga region to proceed to the following designated safe spaces:
Pellsrus Caravan Park
Kruisfontein Civic Centre
Sea Vista Hall
KwaNomzamo Community Hall
“Your safety is our top priority. Please remain calm, follow official instructions, and assist those who may need support,” the municipality said.
The municipality continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary.
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