Eastern Cape provincial government urges residents to remain vigilant as severe weather conditions persist

The Eastern Cape Provincial Government continues to monitor severe weather conditions affecting several parts of the province following warnings issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

The province has experienced persistent heavy rainfall, flooding, strong winds and dangerous road conditions associated with a cut-off low-pressure system. Emergency response teams, routine road maintenance teams, disaster management officials and municipalities remain on high alert and continue to help affected communities across the province.

Areas within the Sarah Baartman District Municipality, including Kouga and Koukamma Municipalities, remain under a Level 8 weather warning, while municipalities including Ndlambe, Makana, Sundays River Valley, Dr Beyers Naude and Blue Crane Route remain under a Level 6 warning.

An urgent evacuation notice has been issued for residents in Kingsway Village, Big Fish, Gamtoos Mouth, Ferry Hotel, and all low-lying areas in the Gamtoos Valley as the Kouga Dam has exceeded full capacity and is currently at 113%, resulting in serious flooding risk to surrounding communities.

The Kouga R62 road between Kareedouw and Joubertina has been closed after sections of the road were washed away due to heavy rains.

Meanwhile, in the Nelson Mandela Bay has also been heavily affected with widespread flooding affecting major routes, including portions of the N2 and several low-lying roads. More than a thousand residents have been displaced in both Nelson Mandela Metro and Sarah Baartman and are currently being accommodated in community and church halls.

The Provincial Government further notes that emergency response teams are actively assisting communities affected by flooding in Buffalo City Metro, where widespread flooding, electricity outages and infrastructure damage have also been reported. The Department of Education has temporarily closed schools in high-risk areas including in the BCMM.

Government wishes to caution members of the public against the spread of false and misleading information on social media platforms. Reports claiming that crocodiles are roaming around Maletswai following recent flooding have been confirmed as false by the Joe Gqabi District Municipality. Similarly, misleading reports regarding road closures in parts of the province have also been noted.

Residents are urged to rely only on verified communication from government authorities, municipalities, law enforcement agencies and emergency services. The Eastern Cape Provincial Government calls on residents to continue observing the following safety precautions:

• Avoid crossing flooded roads, rivers and streams on foot or by vehicle;
• Avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions;
• Keep children away from rivers, drainage systems and flooded areas;
• Move to higher ground in flood-prone areas where necessary;
• Follow instructions from emergency personnel and local authorities;
• Continue monitoring official communication platforms for weather and safety updates.

Relief efforts remain underway in affected communities, with support from disaster management teams, municipalities and humanitarian organisations.

The Provincial Government conveys its appreciation to emergency personnel, municipal teams, volunteers and community organisations working tirelessly to protect lives and assist affected residents during this difficult period. The safety of residents remains the highest priority, and government will continue to provide updates as conditions evolve.

For media interview arrangements, please contact:
Yonela Dekeda
Cell: 083 378 0968

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