Weather Warnings Prompt School Closures in Cape Winelands and Overberg

In response to the persistent extreme weather conditions that continue to grip parts of South Africa, the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has announced the closure of schools in two of its districts, the Cape Winelands and Overberg, on Friday. This proactive move comes after a thorough risk assessment conducted in conjunction with Provincial Disaster Risk Management authorities.

MEC David Maynier confirmed the decision for the extended closure, citing safety hazards related to widespread rainfall, resulting road, and infrastructure damage, as well as far-reaching flooding issues that have significantly affected a number of schools and their ability to operate safely. The complexities in traveling to and from the educational institutions have also played a crucial role in the decision-making process.

Maynier highlighted that the call to keep educational doors shut in these particular districts is not made lightly, and it emphasizes the importance placed on the security and wellbeing of both the learners and educators. The WC, West Coast Education District, and Eden and Central Karoo Education District schools, however, are scheduled to reopen on Friday barring any approved exceptions.

Parents and caregivers of students in the affected by the closure districts are urged to stay abreast of any further communications from their respective schools. Reopening is currently slated for Monday, 15 July 2024, barring any further impediments delivered by Mother Nature.

The extreme weather has taken a toll on the educational infrastructure throughout the province, with a reported 17 schools marred by disruptions or damage, and 86 cases labeled as serious that need immediate attention. WCED's infrastructure teams are diligently working to mitigate these challenges, with the MEC expressing gratitude for their tireless efforts in these adverse conditions.

This unexpected turn of events underscores the changeable and sometimes harsh weather patterns affecting the Western Cape, and the measures that agencies like the WCED must take to ensure safety and continuity in education amidst environmental challenges.