Witzenberg Municipality said it remains on high alert as severe weather continues to affect the region.
“Emergency teams remain on standby to respond to incidents linked to heavy rainfall, strong winds and freezing temperatures” the statement read.
The warning follows forecasts from the South African Weather Service of an intense cold front moving across the Western Cape
No major incidents reported
Executive Mayor Trevor Abrahams said the municipality had not recorded any major incidents.
“I am glad to report that, as far as the storm is concerned, we have had no major incidents.
There were two accidents reported, but fortunately no fatalities,” Abrahams said.
He confirmed that the municipality had fully activated its Disaster Management Team.
“The control room will remain operational throughout the afternoon, and I want to assure residents that all relevant teams remain on standby to support the community in real time should any distress situations arise,” he said.
Emergency services on standby
Several municipal services remain on heightened readiness.These include:
- Ambulance services
- Fire services
- Traffic services and law enforcement.
- Stormwater management teams,
- Electricity teams and waste management services also remain on standby.
The municipality warned that severe weather could cause localised flooding, dangerous driving conditions and infrastructure damage.
Residents urged to stay prepared
The municipality encouraged residents to use the Witzenberg #DisasterReady online platform.
The tool helps residents identify hazards and locate evacuation centres.
Residents can report emergencies to the municipality’s 24-hour control room on 023 492 0181 or 023 492 0182.
They can also send WhatsApp messages to 081 896 5480.Abrahams urged residents to stay indoors where possible.
He also called on residents to secure loose items around their homes and report emergencies immediately.
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