A powerful storm hit Cape Town, South Africa this weekend, leaving behind a trail of destruction that includes damaged residences, cars dragged through the streets, and devastating fires.
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In response to this catastrophe, the city activated its Disaster Coordination Committee to manage the aftermath and assist those affected by the storm.
The most significant damage was caused by intense winds, resulting in the removal of roofs in several areas, including Khayelitsha, Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, Macassar, Strand, and Delft. The situation forced the evacuation of Morkel Cottages residents, who are now sheltering with friends and family. Somerset West Methodist Primary School also suffered severe structural damage due to the wind.
The violence of the storm spared no part of the southern peninsula, where at least nine properties were consumed by flames in Glencairn, exacerbating the emergency situation in the region.
In Fish Hoek, the situation is critical with ongoing evacuations on Main Road due to a fire that also caused rockslides, blocking the main access road.
Recovery efforts are underway, with the Department of Energy working intensely to restore electrical lines and power supply in various areas, including Claremont, Fish Hoek, Athlone, Durbanville, Mfuleni, Kuilsriver, and Plumstead. Additionally, numerous reports of fallen trees in Somerset West, Philippi, Mitchells Plain, and Sea Point have increased the challenges for rescue teams.
Given the severity of the damage and associated risks, the Western Cape Government has decided to close schools in the Overberg, Cape Winelands, and Helderberg areas on Monday, following a level 9 warning issued by the SA Weather Services.
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