The impact of widespread rainfall in various parts of the Western Cape has caused Cape Nature to temporarily close several of its nature reserves. The damaging wind and rain have impacted the operations at multiple nature reserves, including Jonkershoek, Hottentots Holland, Gamkaberg, Limietberg and the Cederberg.
Also read: Videos: Heavy flooding reported in multiple parts of the Cape
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Significant rainfall has been experienced and is expected to persist over the next few days. Consequently, certain areas have been closed as they have been compromised by the heavy downpour.
Cape Nature released a statement which read, ‘We have taken the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of our staff and visitors. Where necessary our local contractors have been evacuated and our staff have been sent home. We understand that this may cause some inconvenience, but please note that these reserves will remain closed until further notice.’
According to Dr. Kevin Winter, a senior lecturer in Environmental and Geographical Sciences at the University of Cape Town, the recent flash floods and heavy rainfall patterns in Cape Town, although not historically uncommon, is earlier than the normal rainfall which is generally observed in late June and early July.
Dr. Winter said the current rainfall patterns resemble those of the 1990s when similar rainfall occurred at the end of May and during June, just as we are experiencing now.
Regarding floods in specific areas of the city, Dr Winter explained that the increase in urban development in parts of the city since the 1990s has led to a phenomenon known as ‘groundwater rising.’ This occurrence is considered normal after ten consecutive days of rainfall. The built-up nature of the city contributes to this phenomenon, resulting in localised flooding in certain areas.
Before planning a visit to any of Cape Nature’s reserves, it is requested that individuals contact the call centre at 087 087 8250 to verify if their intended destination is open. Staying updated with any forthcoming announcements can be done by following the organisation’s social media platforms.
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Picture: Cape Nature / Facebook