Africa-Press – South-Africa. The South African Weather Service issued a Level 9 warning for disruptive rain across Cape Town, parts of the Overberg and the Cape Winelands on Sunday.
Heavy rain and gale force winds are expected to impact the region from Sunday through to Monday.
The weather service said widespread flooding, severe thunderstorms, gale-force winds and rough seas could be expected.
Anton Bredell, Western MEC for local government, environmental affairs and development planning, said the approaching cut-off low system was expected to bring torrential downpours exceeding 100mm in places in the Overberg, Cape Winelands and Garden Route districts.
The MEC said the provincial disaster management centre was activated on Sunday.
In a statement, Bredell said:
“Our dams are full, and the soil is already saturated after good rains this winter. Such heavy downpours in a short space of time can lead to flash floods, mudslides and general flooding of roads and residential areas.”
It was anticipated that the brunt of the storm would be experienced on Sunday evening, “complicating potential rescue operations, if needed”.
In the City of Cape Town, rainfall was expected to be between 50 and 80mm.
The City said strong winds could be expected to uproot trees, carry outside objects, furniture, loose gutters and roof tiles, and cause damage to garage doors, sliding doors and windows.
The public was urged to secure and fix such objects and to cover doors and windows.
Residents were urged to stay informed, stay indoors and take shelter, as well as being aware of evacuation plans.
The City also warned of possible power outages during severe storms and to avoid flooded areas.
Bredell said the storm demanded caution, attention and proactive measures.
“Please take these warnings seriously and make the necessary preparations to ensure your safety, and the safety of those around you,” he said.
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