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A South African Weather Service advisory indicates that an intense cold front should make landfall later tonight.
The City of Cape Town’s Disaster Operations Centre is on standby to deal with any incidents related to an expected frontal system.
The South African Weather Service has advised that the cold front is expected to make landfall overnight into tomorrow morning, with 50 mm plus of rain expected along the mountainous areas of the peninsula.
In addition, strong to gale-force winds are expected overnight, followed by very cold conditions and rough seas tomorrow.
‘This is the first advisory in some time, given that we’ve had very little significant rainfall in the last month or so, but our agencies are well versed in disaster risk management and will be on hand to assist any members of the public in need. We appeal to homeowners to ensure that they survey their properties to make sure that gutters and drains aren’t blocked and that loose branches and roof sheeting are taken care of. I’d also like to advise motorists to stay off the roads if possible and, if they have to drive somewhere, to please exercise extreme caution,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.Between June and August 2016, the Disaster Operations Centre recorded a total of 134 114 residents in 34 842 structures affected by fire and inclement weather. The Centre facilitated social relief to the value of just under R24,5 million during this period. This included meals, blankets, mattresses and vanity packs supplied by a number of non-governmental organisations: the Red Cross Society, the Salvation Army, the Mustadafin Foundation and HDI.
‘We also have a plan in place to activate emergency shelter if required, but we find that in instances where people really cannot stay in their homes (particularly in informal settlements) most opt to stay with family or friends close by. Our Disaster Risk Management staff will start surveying areas where problems are reported at first light, but they are available throughout the night if required. I would therefore advise the public to report incidents to the 107 call centre so that we can get to them as soon as possible,’ said Alderman Smith.
Members of the public can contact the City’s Public Emergency Contact Centre on 107 from a landline or 021 480 7700 from a cellphone to report any incidents related to the inclement weather.
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