A weather warning was issued on Sunday giving Capetonians the heads up that a major cold front is moving in. The first of the frosty occasions was scheduled for today, Monday, while the other is on its way tomorrow.
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According to an advisory from the South African Weather Service, accumulated rainfall amounts of 25-45mm are widely expected with 60-90mm likely near the mountainous regions of the province over the two day period.
Today’s heavy rain brought with it electrical faults, multiple accidents, and localised flooding, reports News24.
According to mayoral committee member for safety and security JP Smith, 3 vehicle accidents have been recorded as a result of the heavy downfall.
Roads have also fallen victim to relentless rain, reportedly being submerged in a number of neighbourhoods, including Bellville, Ottery, Athlone, Woodstock, Plattekloof, and Panorama.
Watch: Flooding of Melkbosstrand roads.
Watch: Strand golf house area has flooded.
“The City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre (DRMC) received reports of flooding in informal settlements in Gugulethu, Wynberg, Valhalla Park, Philippi and Khayelitsha, Macassar, Sir Lowry’s Pass Village and Lwandle,” Smith said.
“DRMC teams are busy with assessments along with the City’s Informal Settlement Management Department.”
Eskom has also reported weather related issues, saying in a statement that its network in the province has been affected.
As well as this, the public utility said it was expecting an increase in faults.
“Severe weather conditions put the network at risk and can affect the electricity supply of customers in some areas and potentially leave customers with prolonged periods without electricity. Unfortunately, these conditions also affect the restoration efforts of technical teams out in the field,” it said.
“Eskom will prioritise its response based on the size and duration of the faults. Large faults on the MV and HV network that affect a large number of customers will be prioritised. Faults that have left single customers without electricity supply for more than 48 hours will take priority, and thereafter, faults for more than 24 hours until the most recent faults.”
Meanwhile, Smith has urged residents so secure their properties by ensuring that no loose items are lying around and overhanging branches are attended to.
“The wet weather is set to continue for most of the week, and we really want to avoid unnecessary incidents on the roads,” he said.
Read also:
City of Cape Town cautions residents as cold front approaches
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