Be prepared: Safeguard against coming storm

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The South African Weather Service urges the public to exercise utmost caution in the light of extreme windy conditions expected from tonight at midnight right through to midnight Friday 26 November.

Although no floods are expected, strong south-easterly winds gushing up to 100km/h are expected along the coastal towns of the Garden Route. The warning is especially relevant to everybody who intends to go boating, fishing, rock or beach fishing on the sea and interior water bodies.

In addition, it is expected that both formal and informal settlements will suffer widespread damage and that communication, power and utilities could be disrupted. People are urged to be wary of sudden cross winds if travelling, especially between trees, power lines and flying debris.

There is a risk risk of high-sided vehicles falling over due to strong cross winds. Travel delays could also be expected.

George Municipality asks residents to take serious note of warning. The municipality continues to clear up the after-effects of the flash flooding and is preparing as far as possible for the expected damage from high winds, together with rain, which is expected on Friday.

Precautionary Tips

Look out for objects that could be easily swept up and picked up by gusts of wind. Place garbage cans, patio furniture, grills and other potentially wind-borne objects inside your home, garage or an undercover area where possible.
Clean out your roof gutters and remove any objects that could block water from flowing into sewerage drains. The better the water flow, the less chance there is of damage to your roof and the possibility of collapsing walls.
Check the storm water catchment pits and kerb inlets in front of and around your property. Clear away any visible debris or contact George Civil Engineering Services on 044 801 9262.
Ensure that all temporary structures are well anchored.
Keep your windows shut to prevent them from being damaged by excessive wind.
Ensure your vehicle wipers and lights are functioning properly in case you are caught in a bad storm. This will ensure you can see and are seen on the road during the storm.
In the event of rain, drive slowly and keep a safe following distance (approximately three cars apart). This allows you to stop in time as the roads will be slippery.
If you decide to pull off the road, keep your hazard lights on so that other motorists can see you.
Keep your phone charged and keep a power bank on hand to ensure you can stay in touch or call for help in an emergency.
Do not park under trees, as they can be uprooted and fall your car.
Be vigilant and do not drive across low bridges or intersections that are flooded, as your car could be swept away by fast-moving water.
George Fire Department has sand available for households wanting to prepare for possible further rain. Agri in York Street has confirmed that bags are in stock to buy for this purpose. Please bring your bags to the sidewalk area next to the fire department and municipal filling station in Mitchell Street for filling.

Humanitarian relief

Any donations of food, blankets, clothing, mattresses, bedding and toiletries can be delivered to the Garden Route Food Pantry at 1 Glaze street, next door to the Takelot depot. Contact Carl on 082 826 0731 or Tillie on 072 188 1207 in this regard. George Municipality will handle the assigning of donations to those in need.

Gunplast requests

The George Municipal Human Settlements directorate has worked solidly since Monday addressing requests for gunplast.

Members of the public who require assistance with the supply of gunplast must please register their requests as follows:

Telephonically report the matter to the George JOC on 044 801 6316 or after hours on 044 801 6300.
Visit your nearest area office or ward /other councillor, who will report on your behalf.
E-mail to gmun@george.gov.za providing the necessary contact details, names of residents affected and street address.
Log via the municipal app, Housing Queries OR General Request with the necessary contact details, names of residents affected and street address.