Update:
Premier Alan Winde has announced the closure of all schools in the Overberg, Cape Winelands and Helderberg areas on Monday.
This decision follows a level 9 warning issued by the SA Weather Service for damaging winds and rain across the province.
‘We don’t ever really want to close schools, but we need to remain cautious.’
Meanwhile, the City of Cape Town has activated its Disaster Coordinating Committee to manage the impacts of the adverse weather conditions experienced in the metropole and surrounding areas.
Most of the impacts reported are wind-related, with incidents including roofs blown off in Khayelitsha, Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, Macassar, Strand and Delft.
Additionally, Somerset West Methodist Primary School has suffered extensive wind damage.
In light of the severe weather conditions, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has issued urgent advisories to residents and visitors across the region.
With heavy rainfall looming, preparations are underway to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of everyone.
School halls have been designated as alternative accommodation for residents whose homes have been damaged by the storm. This measure aims to provide temporary shelter and support to those impacted by the weather conditions.
Premier Winde has urged tourists to refrain from travelling to the Overberg area and advised them to remain at their accommodation until the weather subsides.
According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), a significant weather system, including a cut-off low, is approaching the Western Cape.
Also read: Baden Powell Drive remains closed due to adverse weather conditions
The bulk of heavy rainfall is anticipated on Monday morning and again in the afternoon into the evening. Regional Manager Rudzani Malala emphasised concerns for the Winelands and Overberg areas, stressing the expected intensity of the forthcoming rain.
Recent reports indicate damage to infrastructure, including the Helderberg Hospital in Somerset West, where no evacuation has been necessary despite roof damage.
Somerset Mall experienced roof sheeting blown off, leading to evacuations and onsite assessments by building inspectors. Informal settlements in Somerset West and Strand areas have also reported roof damage and uprooted trees.
Also read: Somerset Mall closed due to roof damage from severe winds
Colin Deiner, head of disaster risk management, highlighted that assessments will be conducted to determine further response plans, with a primary focus on safeguarding lives.
To mitigate risks associated with Level 9 weather warnings, Premier Winde announced the closure of some schools in affected parts of the Western Cape.
We have taken a decision to close all schools in the Overberg, Cape Winelands, and Helderberg (Somerset) areas tomorrow.
Our teams are communicating with private schools at the moment.
— Premier Alan Winde (@alanwinde) April 7, 2024
Also read:
300-year-old Blaauwklippen Vineyards Manor House gutted by fire
Picture: @alanwinde / X