The Eastern Cape government has called on communities to remain on high alert after the South African Weather Services (SAWS) at the weekend issued a level 6 warning for disruptive storms in the province.
The Office of the Premier Oscar Mabuyane in a statement said municipalities that are to be impacted have already been notified.
These include Elundini, Dr AB Xuma (formerly known as Engcobo), Great Kei, Ingquza Hill, Intsika Yethu, King Sabata Dalindyebo, Matatiele, Mbhashe, Mbizana, Mhlontlo, Mnquma, Ntabankulu, Nyandeni, Port St Johns, Sakhisizwe, Umzimvubu.
SAWS predicted that heavy rains would fall from last night and could continue for about three days.
According to the Weather Service, a steepening upper-air trough, surface trough and a ridging high-pressure system is expected to result in windy conditions with showers and thundershowers across the province from Sunday, where the significant amounts of at least 40 to 70mm can be expected in places over Buffalo City Metro, Great Kei LM, Mnquma LM, Mbhashe LM, OR Tambo DM, Alfredo Nzo DM.
Flooding of roads, settlements, low-lying areas and bridges with disruptions of traffic flow and municipal services, as well as damage to property, infrastructure and loss of livelihood is expected.
“Motorists should consider postponing their travel arrangements to avoid being caught in a dangerous storm,” the Premier suggested.
