The recent spring high tide has wreaked havoc along the coast, causing destruction and leading to evacuations in several areas in the Western Cape.
On Saturday, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) responded to a scene where a number of vehicles were threatened by the rising tide. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
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The high tide, combined with strong winds and storm conditions, has prompted high-level weather warnings for the weekend. As a result, emergency services are urging the public to exercise caution around the coastland and in inland rivers, lakes, and dams.
Parked vehicles were not spared from the destructive power of the high tide. Some unfortunate owners found their cars washed away by the relentless waves. Properties along the coastline also suffered damage, with reports of flooding and structural damage.
In response to the worsening conditions, emergency teams have been working tirelessly to evacuate residents from vulnerable areas. Currently, the roads to Herolds Bay and Victoria Bay beaches have been temporarily closed due to the incoming high tide. People are strongly advised against visiting any beaches at this time.
“Our priority is the safety and well-being of the affected residents. Our emergency teams are on the ground, assisting with the evacuation process. We understand the inconvenience caused by the road closures and the disruption to daily routines, but safety must always come first,” said the George municipality.
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“We will continue to provide updates as we receive more information about when the beaches will reopen. It is crucial that everyone remains vigilant and follows the advice of emergency services. Please stay away from the coastline and avoid unnecessary risks during these challenging weather conditions.”
Here are some of the graphics from various scenes
Herolds Bay #CapeofStorms pic.twitter.com/Afnhip6egD
— Zelda la Grange ©™✌ (@ZeldalaGrangeSA) September 16, 2023
Reports : Of high tides in Gordon’s Bay Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Coast: Victoria Bay, Herolds Bay & parts of Eastern Cape also affected
Massive springtide hits the Western Cape Province pic.twitter.com/6QK6pp3mjF— News Live SA (@newslivesa) September 16, 2023
Massive springtide hits the Western Cape Province of South Africa. See images of Harold’s Bay, Gordon’s Bay (Bikini Beach), Blouberg (snow), Gordons Bay harbour.
Please take care. Stay safe. pic.twitter.com/WNuHAaEHXs
— Gordons Bay ⚓️ Gordonsbaai Holiday Homes (@GordonsBay_WP) September 16, 2023
UPDATE 1:
All beaches are closed. We urge members of the community to stay away from all beaches. https://t.co/WQrE2O6DHi pic.twitter.com/dA8Phj6xTT
— George Municipality (@george_mun) September 16, 2023
URGENT NOTICE: Herold’s Bay and Victoria Bay beaches are currently closed due to high tidehttps://t.co/WQrE2O6DHi pic.twitter.com/O5HKxhR6ww
— George Municipality (@george_mun) September 16, 2023
