Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, said today that the Western Cape Government’s Joint Operations Centre (JOC) is coordinating widespread mopping-up operations and the restoration of basic services across all affected districts.
As weather conditions improve, water levels are beginning to subside and transport routes are gradually becoming functional again.
“Our province has been affected by two severe weather events in a short space of time. While damages still need to be fully assessed, they appear extensive and widespread. We know there are areas in the Garden Route where residents have been without electricity for nine days, which has subsequently impacted other basic services. Many communities in the Witzenberg area also remain isolated, with no road access, no electricity, and disrupted communication networks.
We understand the frustration, but we want to assure the public that all role-players are working non-stop to restore services as quickly as possible,” Minister Bredell said.
Eskom has confirmed that electricity supply has been restored to Wolseley and Tulbagh, while restoration work in Ceres is ongoing.
Humanitarian relief efforts are continuing across the City of Cape Town, Garden Route, Cape Winelands, Central Karoo, West Coast, and Overberg districts. Displaced residents are being accommodated in community halls, where hot meals, dry clothing, and blankets are being provided.
The City of Cape Town reported that more than 84,000 people living in informal settlements across the metro have been affected and require assistance.
Flooding persists along the Breede River, where peak flows of 1,989 m³/s were recorded this morning. However, reports from the Overberg District indicate that water levels are gradually subsiding.
The Clanwilliam Dam level has dropped to 89% from 103% following controlled water releases. Communities downstream, including Trawal and Vredendal, are urged to remain cautious due to high flow volumes in the Olifants River.
Media enquiries:
Wouter Kriel
Spokesperson for Minister Anton Bredell
Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning
079 694 3085
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