Pretoria - The Gauteng Executive Council has declared a state of disaster in parts of Gauteng affected by flash floods.
The declaration, which was made today at a special meeting in Johannesburg, is made in terms of section 41 of the Disaster Management Act.
On the afternoon of 9 November 2016, Gauteng experienced heavy downpours, which led to flash floods in parts of Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni.
The flash floods caused loss of life, extensive damage to residential properties and major traffic jams on the N3 highway, with several vehicles swept away and others completely submerged in water.
OR Tambo International Airport was also severely impacted by the flash floods, leading to suspension of services for several hours.
More heavy downpours and storms were reported over the past few days, affecting various parts of Gauteng.
With more extreme weather predicted over the next few months, there is a risk of negative impacts - socially and economically. Production levels may be affected as people have to leave work early to avoid being caught in bad weather. The schooling programme and social services, such as health care, may be disrupted in areas where public property is damaged by extreme weather.
Premier David Makhura will issue a notice in the provincial gazette declaring a state of disaster in areas affected by extreme weather.
The Gauteng Provincial Government will, in collaboration with the other spheres of government, take the necessary steps to minimise the negative impacts of extreme weather.
Residents who live in areas that are not suitable for human habitation, such as along the flood line and river banks, will be relocated to safer areas.
The immediate concern of the Gauteng Provincial Government is to assist in whatever way possible the needy and vulnerable, who have been displaced as a result of serious damage to their homes.
Today, Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and Social Development MEC Nandi Mayuthula-Khoza are on the ground in Ennerdale after a tornado swept through the area earlier this week.
About 50 houses have been damaged and 200 people have been affected. The MECs will ensure those in need receive the required support and assistance.
The Department of Roads and Transport will also conduct regular checks on all roads, bridges and other infrastructure to ensure that they function well and are able to withstand any extreme weather.
The Department of Health will activate the Outbreak Response Unit to minimise the impact of a possible outbreak after tests confirmed the presence of e-coli bacteria in Jukskei River water.
All the other departments will intervene as required to help reduce the negative impact of extreme weather.
Gauteng government is also reviewing its Disaster Management Strategy to strengthen existing capability to deal with disasters.
The provincial government has also thanked everyone who assisted those in need, including the Gift of the Givers, community organisations as well as local business people. – SAnews.gov.za
