Communities in the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) in the Eastern Cape are facing a significant challenge as heavy rains continue to wreak havoc in the region. The adverse weather conditions have resulted in severe damage to homes, overflowing roads, and bridges, prompting the ADM to issue a warning to local residents. Concurrently, the eThekwini Municipality in Durban is grappling with its own set of challenges due to heavy rainfall. This article provides an in-depth overview of the situation in both regions and offers guidance for affected communities.
Amathole District Municipality Grapples with Heavy Rains
In the Amathole District Municipality, the relentless rain has caused substantial damage to infrastructure and homes, leading to growing concerns among residents. Most parts of the district have experienced heavy rainfall, with roads and bridges overflowing, making transportation hazardous.
Nonceba Madikizela-Vuso, the municipal spokesperson, issued a public advisory on behalf of ADM. She stressed the importance of remaining vigilant during this challenging period, cautioning residents to avoid crossing overflowing bridges, roads, and rivers. The municipality has activated disaster response teams to assess the extent of the damage, working closely with local councillors.
Madikizela-Vuso explained that the full scope of the damage would only become clear once assessments are complete. To expedite ADM’s disaster response efforts, affected communities are encouraged to report damages to their respective ward councillors.
Durban Motorists Advised to Exercise Caution
In Durban, the eThekwini Municipality is grappling with its own set of issues stemming from the heavy rainfall. The municipality has urged motorists to exercise extreme caution while navigating the rain-affected roads.
Heavy rainfall led to the closure of several major roads in Durban on Monday night. These affected roads include:
- Curnick Ndlovu Highway N2 bridge
- N2 Northbound in Umlazi
- R102 and Glen Anil
- M4 Southern Freeway
- M25 towards Phoenix and KwaMashu Highway
- Kloof Village Road and Maytime offramp in Hillcrest
- Duffs Road and Glen Anil in Durban North
- Sparks Road from Sherwood towards Randles Road
- M4 South from Victoria Embankment
- Palmview Drive near Palmview Primary School
- South Coast Road near Delta
The heavy rainfall has created treacherous conditions on these roads, with the potential for accidents and other safety hazards. Motorists have been advised to buckle up, switch on their headlights, and drive with extra care to ensure their safety and that of others on the road.
South African Weather Service’s Outlook
According to the South African Weather Service’s outlook for October 16 to 17, 2023, the eastern parts of the country are expected to experience showers and thundershowers. Widespread rains are forecasted for the eastern regions on October 16, and over the north-eastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal on October 17, 2023. This weather forecast underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and preparedness, especially in areas susceptible to flooding.
In conclusion, residents of the Amathole District Municipality and Durban must remain vigilant and prioritize safety during this period of heavy rainfall. The impact on infrastructure, homes, and roads is significant, and the assistance of local authorities is vital for assessing and mitigating the damage. Keeping up with weather forecasts and heeding official advice can help minimize risks and ensure the well-being of communities in these regions.
