GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT NEWS - The South African Weather Service has issued severe weather alerts for the Western Cape, including the Garden Route District.
Winds
Strong north-westerly winds (50-60km/h gusting 70km/h) can be expected over southern Namaqua and the central and eastern interior of the Western Cape during the afternoons of Monday 21 June and Tuesday 22 June, although excluding the Garden Route for Tuesday. North-westerly to westerly winds are also expected to reach gale force (60-70km/h gusting to 80km/h) between Cape Columbine and Cape Agulhas from Monday night, spreading to Still Bay on Tuesday afternoon moderating the evening.
Instruction: Be aware of the following: sudden cross winds if travelling, especially between buildings, fallen trees or power lines. Ensure that all temporary structures are well anchored. Small boats must stay away from the open sea and seek the shelter of a harbour, river estuary or protected bay.
Affected municipalities: Bitou, George, Hessequa, Kannaland, Knysna, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn, Prince Albert, Swellendan
Damaging waves
Significant wave heights with predominant SW direction of 4.0 to 6.5m between Cape Columbine and Cape Agulhas from Tuesday afternoon (22 June), with 5.0m wave heights spreading to Alexander Bay and Plettenberg Bay on Wednesday 23 June. Rough and choppy seas are expected for Monday (21 June) and Tuesday (22 June), but high energy and powerful waves from Tuesday night. Although spring high tide is expected on Thursday, tides will already be reaching further up the beachfront throughout the week. Wave heights will subside on Thursday 24 June.
Instruction: Be aware of large unpredictable waves along the coast. Small vessels are advised to seek shelter in harbours, bays or inlets. Be aware of strong rip currents especially during spring tides.
Affected municipalities: Bitou, George, Hessequa, Knysna, Mossel Bay
Veld fire conditions
Strong and hot northerly winds conducive to runaway veld fires are expected to continue on the Garden Route until Monday evening 21 June.
Please do not make open fires and discard of cigarette butts responsibly.
Affected municipalities: Beaufort West, George, Hessequa, Kannaland, Knysna, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn, Prince Albert, Swellendam
Report any weather-related incidents to Garden Route Disaster Management Centre on 044 805 5071.
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