Cold front brings heavy rain, flooding in Northern Cape

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Heavy rains have led to flooding in some parts of the Northern Cape including Hantam, Kamiesberg and Middelpos.

Some residents around Hantam suffered severe damage to their properties and have been relocated to temporary accommodation at Lenie Skippers Community Hall.

Strong winds also caused damage to telecommunications infrastructure leaving some places without cellphone coverage.

Inclement weather is expected to persist in the province until later this week.

Northern Cape Today ‘s Weather overview: 9.7.2024 pic.twitter.com/nyXNQFAArD

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) July 9, 2024

Department of Cooperative Governance spokesperson Babalwa Mzambo says, “Currently, Kamiesberg is experiencing flooded roads and disrupted telecommunication services, while some families in Hantam have faced significant property damage, their relocation to the Lenie Skippers Community Hall. In Middelpos, power outages persist and approximately 15 informal households in Calvinia have sustained damage.”

“Buffelsrivier in Nama-Khoi is experiencing flooded roads, prompting community members and road users to exercise caution and vigilance on the roads. Affected families have received temporary shelter and provisions, with ongoing assessments conducted by the provincial disaster management committee to extend further aid as required,” adds Mzambo.

Meanwhile, the Free State has experienced its coldest day this year.

The South African Weather Service says a cold snap has hit the province, with strong winds and temperatures below 10°C. The Xhariep district has experienced light snowfall, but it is not expected to cause any disruption. Strong winds have fanned veld fires in parts of the province.

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