Disaster Risk Management squares up for next frontal system

As the SA Weather Service (SAWS) issued a warning for yellow level 4 disruptive rainfall this coming weekend, the City's Disaster Risk Management Centre will once again coordinate emergency responses to any impacts brought about by the forecast. 

The forecast is from Friday into Sunday.

Among the potential impacts are localised flooding of roads and settlements and saturation of waterways.

"We have alerted our NGO partners who will provide humanitarian assistance where needed," said  Disaster Risk Management Centre spokesperson, Sonica Lategan.

"We ask that residents please address any issues on their properties to mitigate the risk of localised flooding. Also, please log service requests for any City-related services so that these can be assigned to the relevant departments."

Motor vehicle accidents tend to soar during heavy rains.

Lategan said the safety of City staff members will also be considered. 

"The rate of assessment and action can be slowed by prevailing weather conditions, and we also have to consider the safety of staff members. If required, our Disaster Coordinating Committee will convene to coordinate responses where needed. However, I do want to appeal to the public to help ease the load where possible. For example, motor vehicle accidents tend to soar during wet weather spells, eating into available enforcement and emergency resources. Do your bit and employ driving tactics that are appropriate for the road conditions."

The City's donation drop-off points are the following fire stations: Constantia, Goodwood, Hout Bay, Lakeside, Roeland Street, Strand and Wynberg.

Donors can also email [email protected] for collection.

Anyone wishing to assist can donate clothing for all ages, non-perishable food items like rice, maize meal, tinned fish, tinned beans and baby formula, as well as personal hygiene items.

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