Warnings of disruptive rains leading to localised flooding of informal settlements, roads, low-lying areas and bridges have been issued for parts of the Eastern Cape.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow level 2 warning for Buffalo City Metro (BCM), Amahlathi, Great Kei, Mnquma, Mbashe, Mhlontlo and Ntabankulu Local Municipalities.
Meanwhile, major disruption of traffic flow due to the flooding of roads and settlements can be expected over King Sabatha Dalindyebo, Nyandeni, Port St Johns, Ingquza Hill and Mbizana Local Municipalities.
BCM Spokesperson Samkelo Ngwenya says disaster management departments consisting of Infrastructure, Human Settlements, Disaster Management and Traffic and Law Enforcement are on standby to attend to all emergencies.
The Metro has especially warned motorists travelling around East London, Mdantsane and eQonce to be on the lookout for low-lying roads and bridges as the rainy conditions persist.
Ngwenya said the city has been experiencing rains for the better part of the last two weeks and whilst this is good for dam levels, it also poses risks for motorists and informal settlements.
He further advised residents to take necessary precautions to secure their properties and to be aware of flooded areas when crossing streams, rivers or driving.
Meanwhile, the heavy rains experienced in the Amathole District Municipality have caused severe damage to some houses and further caused roads and bridges to overflow.
The municipality issued a statement on Monday urging communities to remain vigilant and on high alert during this time and to avoid crossing overflowing bridges, roads, and rivers.
Disaster teams are said to be on the ground conducting assessments working closely with the local councillors.
Affected communities are encouraged to report damages to their ward councillors to expedite the municipality’s disaster response.
