KOUGA, SOUTH AFRICA – Dozens of people have been evacuated in the Kouga local municipality after devastating floods hit the Gamtoos valley and its surroundings in the Eastern Cape province over the past weekend. The floods caused by extreme rainfall have resulted in significant damage to property, infrastructure, and roads.
The water levels in the Kouga Dam jumped from 32% to over 110% in just one day. Rising water levels of both the Gamtoos and Krom rivers trapped several people who did not receive enough warning to evacuate. The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), together with police services, used helicopters and boats to rescue victims.
“We received an alert at 1:30 am telling us to get out of our homes as quickly as possible. You heard the noise of water bubbling inside. Then, you wake up without a roof over your head and without necessities like water and food.”
The municipal employees are busy cleaning the mud and debris from the affected roads. Relief activities are being coordinated at the Newton Community Hall. The people affected have been supplied with emergency kits containing food and drinking water.
The authorities have issued a warning that, even though relief efforts have begun, the crisis remains very serious. Assessments are underway, and given the possibility of more rain, people are advised not to travel on flooded roads.
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