GQEBERHA – Heavy rainfall and flooding have continued to impact parts of Nelson Mandela Bay, causing road closures, disruptions at several cemeteries, and the cancellation of the EPA Cross Country Legacy League 2 athletics event that was scheduled to take place on 6 June.
According to the Nelson Mandela Bay municipality, the 3rd Avenue Dip in Newton Park remains flooded and has been closed to all traffic. Barricades have been erected and motorists are being redirected via the William Moffett Expressway.
Flooding has also affected sections of the M4 Settlersway behind North End. While two lanes remain open, motorists travelling southbound and northbound have been advised to drive cautiously and comply with traffic management measures.
The municipality said conditions at cemeteries had improved slightly since yesterday, although several sites continue to experience challenges caused by flooding.
The affected cemeteries include Motherwell, North End, Papenkuils, Missionvale, Despatch, Gerald Smith, Kabar, Matanzima and Bloemendal cemeteries.
According to the Municipal teams are deploying tankers and water-suction equipment to remove water from graves, particularly in areas where vehicles are unable to access certain burial sections.
“The Municipality remains in close contact with undertakers and continues to work collaboratively to identify and implement practical solutions where challenges arise,” the municipality said in a statement.
Officials added that teams remain on standby and are closely monitoring conditions, while hoping that no further rainfall occurs in line with current weather forecasts.
In a notice issued to athletes, clubs and schools, the Eastern Province Athletics (EPA) said the decision was taken after consultation with the local organising committee, Schools Athletics and representatives from the Nelson Mandela Bay Sports and Recreation office.
EPA said the cancellation followed weather warnings for Nelson Mandela Bay and surrounding areas, indicating the possibility of severe rainfall, strong winds, localised flooding and hazardous conditions.
The organisation said continued rainfall could lead to waterlogged grounds, flooded access routes and unsafe conditions for participants and spectators.
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