Thousands affected by W Cape floods

Over 18 000 people have been affected by widespread floods in the Western Cape, authorities said on Saturday.

“Approximately 18 000 people were affected, an evacuation was initiated and people were sheltered in various halls,” said Cape Town disaster management spokesman Wilfred Solomons-Johannes.

The affected areas included Delft, Faure, Fish Hoek, Gugulethu, Hout Bay, Khayelitsha, Kraaifontein, Kuils River, Macassar, Phillippi, Scarborough, Sir Lowry's Pass, Somerset West, Strand and Vahalla Park.

The flooding caused numerous rockfalls, mudslides and landslides along mountainous areas.

“Engineering crews cleared up many of the areas where these incidents occurred and will, during the course of tomorrow (Sunday) proceed with recovery work.”

Power outages were reported in several areas, said Solomons-Johannes.

“We wish to advice that some areas may experience delays as conditions are too hazardous in certain instances to restore power supply.” - Sapa