11 000 shacks destroyed by Cape Town storm
The storm has caused widespread flooding in informal settlements, displacing thousands in Khayelitsha.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane/ Independent Media
The City of Cape Town has reported widespread damage across 26 informal settlements in the metro.
As severe weather conditions affecting large parts of the Western Cape persisted on Tuesday, Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC Anton Bredell said current estimates indicate that close to 11 000 structures sustained damage, affecting up to 42 000 people.
"The Provincial Department of Health and Wellness confirmed a total of six weather-related fatalities since the first cold front made landfall last week.
"The Provincial Mobility Department also reported several road closures. Citrusdal is currently cut off from the N7," Bredell said.
The City's Safety and Security Directorate said it is working closely with other services across Cape Town to manage and respond to hundreds of incidents that have so far been reported.
"Strong winds and heavy downpours may continue to damage electricity infrastructure, leading to a high number of service requests.
"Please note that it is unsafe for our teams to carry out electricity work during heavy rain, strong winds, or flooding.
"Electricity restoration will be undertaken as quickly as possible, but only when conditions are safe.
"Residents are advised to keep cellphones charged and ensure backup devices such as Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) units and emergency lights are charged and available when required," the City advised.
Affected parts of areas include, but not limited to:
- Gugulethu
- Parkwood
- Langa
- Weltevreden Valley
- Hanover Park
- Philippi
- Brooklyn
- Bergvliet
- Rondeboscch
- Glenlilly
- Vasco Estate
- Observatory
- Sybrand Park
- Pinelands
- Plumstead
- Wetton
- Bonteheuwel
- Pinati Estate
- Ottery
- Kenilworth
- Wetton
- Grassy Park
- Lotus River
- Claremont
- Portlands
- Retreat
- Soneike
- Kenridge
- Strand
- De Kuilen
- Durbanville
- Valmary Park
- Vredekloof
- Ravensmead
- Helena Heights
- Bo Kaap