Over the past two days, extreme weather conditions have plunged the Western Cape into disarray, resulting in extensive flooding, property damage, road closures and power interruptions. Tragically, the severe weather claimed the lives of three adults and four children yesterday.
A Golden Arrow Bus overturned on Jakes Gerwel Drive just before 9am in what has been described as a freak accident. Reports indicate that the bus had just pulled away after having a passenger disembark, and as it gained momentum, a strong crosswind caused it to tip over.
Also read: Hundreds flee flooded homes as storms batter Western Cape
As per a statement released by the mayoral committee member responsible for safety and security for the City of Cape Town, Alderman JP Smith, all emergency services were dispatched, and traffic services performed a road closure between Turfhall and Klipfontein Roads, while fire and rescue staff assisted medical responders in their efforts to attend to the injured.
Regrettably, three passengers succumbed to their injuries on the scene. The scene was taken over by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Accident Response Unit, with road closures in place until 2pm.
It was also confirmed by the SAPS that four children lost their lives in the Driftsands informal settlement after being electrocuted, due to flooding and illicit electrical connections tapping into the main power supply.
Charlotte Powell, spokesperson for Disaster Risk Management, provided reassurance that the City of Cape Town, along with external agencies, is in close coordination with the Disaster Coordinating Team. Their joint efforts aim to oversee the consequences of the severe weather encountered in the past 24 hours.
Weather conditions are expected to return to normal from today.
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Picture: JP Smith / Facebook