In a somber turn of events during the extended weekend, eight people were electrocuted amidst a relentless storm battering the Western Cape.
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Eight People Electrocuted in Cape Storm
Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management spokesperson, Charlotte Powell, told News24 that the deaths were caused by illegal electricity connections. These proved fatal amidst the floodwaters that followed the storm. Among the victims, four tragically lost their lives in the Covid-19 informal settlement in Driftsands, while the others died in Klipfontein.
Cape Storm Evacuations and Relief Efforts
Amidst the turmoil, authorities took swift actions to ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals. In one instance, the City evacuated six children from three homes located in Strand, subsequently finding refuge at the Strand Fire Station.
They also evacuated residents of a retirement village in Somerset West, with 170 individuals seeking shelter in a hall situated in Sir Lowry’s Pass Village.
Reassuringly, Charlotte Powell offered solace to those affected, stating,
“A group of people was reported trapped at the Kogel Bay resort due to road closures on both sides, leading to Gordon’s Bay and Rooi Els. The Provincial Disaster Risk Management Centre joined forces with the City in their rescue efforts.”
Trail of Destruction Unleashed
The aftermath of the Cape Storm left a trail of destruction, particularly impacting numerous informal settlements across the city. Preliminary assessments revealed the devastation that over a thousand homes faced due to this calamity.
In response to this urgent need, the City initiated relief efforts promptly. Charlotte Powell emphasised:
“Sand and milling has already started being distributed to assist affected communities, while a number of humanitarian relief agencies are assisting with meals, blankets and other supplies, like baby packs.”
The unforgiving storm spared no corner of the Western Cape, with a multitude of areas affected. Homes in Durbanville, Bo-Kaap, Schaapkraal, Bellville South, Belhar, Sandvlei in Macassar, Strand, Gordon’s Bay, Knorhoek, Scottsdene, and Hout Bay bore the brunt of floodwaters. The situation became increasingly dire in Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, where one house exhibited signs of imminent collapse.
Adding to the chaos, the unrelenting force of nature uprooted trees, causing further damage and disruption. The Cape Storm ruthlessly toppled trees in Hout Bay, Macassar, Rondebosch East, Durbanville, Kuils River, Woodstock, Klipheuwel IFS, Malmesbury farms, Goodwood, Bellville, Protea Village, Uitsig, Brackenfell, and Belmont Park.