Amid inclement weather conditions across the Metropole, the humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers (GOTG) has been on standby for mop-up operations, providing relief for those affected by the weather.
GOTG’s Ali Sablay told VOC News that mass evacuations of about 400 residents are underway in the Breede Valley.
“The Smalblaar River is rising rapidly and poses an imminent threat to the Spookie Town informal settlement in Rawsonville. Approximately 200 residents are currently being evacuated to a community hall as a precautionary safety measure,” explained Sablay.
He added that residents in Zwelethemba are also being relocated to community halls as the Hex River continues to rise dangerously amid persistent heavy rainfall.
“GOTGs will activate a full humanitarian aid distribution programme on Tuesday morning to provide emergency relief to affected communities. Assistance will include hot meals, blankets, hygiene supplies, baby care packs, and other essential humanitarian support,” assured Sablay.
He noted that GOTG teams have been assisting flood-affected communities such as Drakenstein and Stellenbosch Municipality districts.
“The Overstrand District Municipality and Theewaterskloof Municipality have also requested assistance, with assessment teams scheduled to be deployed in the coming hours to determine the extent of the damage and humanitarian needs,” said Sablay.
He emphasised that teams remain on high alert and continue to monitor the situation to ensure that vulnerable residents receive urgent assistance during this unfolding crisis.
Photo: GOTG
