The Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in Mpumalanga has warned communities to be on high alert in the wake of the flood warning issued by the South African Weather Services (SAWS). The Department says Mpumalanga is prone to floods and as such communities must exersize caution on the roads and in the rivers and dams. “The period between November and January is a season for heavy rains. Our roads will be slippery. Bridges are likely to be submerged under water. Our rivers and dams are likely to overflow if rain persists. We call on our
communities not to risk their lives by crossing the rivers and dams during this period,” Mr Msibi warned.
He says more than twenty (20) water fatalities have been recorded in Mpumalanga since this year. Most of the fatalities occurred in Ehlanzeni District. He urged communities not to risk their lives in order to reduce the fatalities. “Resist the temptation of crossing an overflowing bridge, whether by foot or by a car. Parents must restrict their children not to play in the rivers and dams. Residents in low lying areas are at a risk of being washed away in case of flooding, and as such, they must evacuate to safe places, before it is too late. In this way, Mpumalanga can achieve a zero death rate during this rain season,” Mr Msibi said.
He says Disaster Management units in all Municipalities are always on high alert and urged communities to contact them for emergency cases.
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Issued by the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs,
Contact Person: Mr George Mthethwa
Contact Numbers: 013 766 6572/ 083 302 2774
E-mail: gpmthethwa@mpg.gov.za
Facebook: @mpucogta
Twitter: @cogtamp