High alert for ‘intense’ cold front

Published Jul 4, 2014

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Staff Writer

THE City of Cape Town is on high alert for a cold front bound for Cape Town this weekend.

The SA Weather Service expects the front to hit the city by nightfall today.

It has characterised the impending weather as “intense”, with heavy rains and possible flooding in the Cape Metropole, Overberg, Cape Winelands and South-Western Cape District.

The Weather Service also warned about “gale force winds as well as snowfalls that will likely see temperatures plummet”.

The severe weather warning has led to the postponement of an outdoor event Premier Helen Zille would have attended today.

According to Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, acting head of the city’s Disaster Risk Management Centre, the city will probably have the most rain between this afternoon and tomorrow morning.

“The current projection of rainfall accumulation forecasts up to 18mm of rain that will be experienced across the province,” he said. “This will contribute to the potential localised flooding.”

Solomons-Johannes said although the entire city could expect flooding, there was particular concern for the low-lying areas of the Cape Flats.

“Engineering crews are already conducting inspections across the city to ensure stormwater infrastructure is not blocked,” Solomons-Johannes said.

The Disaster Risk Management Centre also urged residents to raise the floor levels of their homes above that of land outside and dig trenches around their homes to minimise the risk of flooding. It also asked residents to report blocked drains and illegal dumping in their areas.

The storm is expected to subside by Sunday. Organisers

of the Winter Wonderland festival in Gordon’s Bay decided to postpone the carnival parade and ceremony today until Sunday. Zille was to take part in today’s parade.

A message Zille’s office sent the organisers read: “The premier fully understands your concerns with weather conditions and was none the less prepared to give up her Sunday to attend this, the 4th Winter Wonderland, to help promote the event and Gordon’s Bay.” Indoor activities would continue, organisers said.

Flooding, blocked drains and service disruptions can be reported to the city’s Call Centre on 0860 103 089.

SMS reports of burst and leaking water mains, and overflowing sewers to 31373.

Enquiries regarding electrical faults can be sent via SMS to 31220. Enquiries regarding roadway delays and deviations should be directed to the city’s Transport Information Centre on 0800 65 64 63.

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