Picture: for illustration purposes
Torrential rains since Friday have significantly and destructively impacted the Garden Route stretch, located in the Western Cape. The severity of the rainfall has led to the heightened response from emergency teams who are working tirelessly to clear debris and fallen trees from roads.
The continuous downpours have caused chaos along this usually idyllic route, leading to flooded low-lying areas and overflowing river banks. These prevalent conditions have forced the closure of several roads between Klein Brak and Great Brak River, placing an added burden on motorists along this route.
The road network between Wilderness and George has been noticeably impacted, with a temporarily stop-and-go operation implemented on the N2 at Kaaiman’s Pass due to a mudslide. Despite one lane being open, traffic build-ups have been reported.
George Municipality has recommended using the Saasveld Road as an alternative route. However, this road was also blocked due to fallen trees, eliciting a response from Sanral (South African National Roads Agency Limited).
Further road disruptions have occurred across low-water bridges in Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn and Kannaland. Within Mossel Bay, the municipality expressed concerns over several flood-engulfed rivers such as the Great Brak, Leeukloof and Kouma rivers.
Floodwaters have reached the Pine Creek Caravan Park at Great Brak River, which is currently inundated. With the Wolwedans Dam overflowing, Mossel Bay's Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services have been actively engaged in ensuring residents' safety.
Amidst this weather crisis, Tradouw Pass has been declared closed due to a mudslide. With such significant impact on George and its neighbouring areas, motorists are being strongly encouraged to limit their travel.
The South African Weather Services had issued a warning for significant rainfall over the Western and Eastern Cape over the weekend. The meteorological body highlighted the broad, severe weather conditions resulting from these systems, including flooding and severe thunderstorms.