Residents of Nelson Mandela Bay are grappling with devastating floods, with many displaced and others trapped in hazardous conditions as heavy rains continue to batter the region.
Story Summary:
- Torrential floods have displaced numerous Nelson Mandela Bay residents, with many others still trapped in life-threatening conditions.
- Power outages have hit large parts of the metro, including Motherwell, KwaNobuhle, and Struandale, exacerbating the situation.
- The municipality and emergency services are actively responding to the crisis, but dangerous road conditions and inclement weather are hindering rescue operations.
Nelson Mandela Bay floods: Residents trapped in torrential conditions
Roads have been closed, power outages are widespread, and emergency services are racing to rescue those in danger.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a level 6 warning for the area, alerting residents to the severe weather that has left many parts of the metro flooded.
Streets have turned into rivers, making it difficult for vehicles to navigate, and some residents are still stranded in their homes.
Electricity disruptions across the metro
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has reported widespread power outages in several areas due to the torrential downpour.
Multiple circuit breakers at critical substations have tripped, causing outages in:
- Motherwell (NU 1 and NU 2)
- KwaNobuhle
- New Brighton
- Struandale
- Kariega and surrounding regions
The municipality has dispatched teams to investigate the faults, but safety precautions are slowing down repair efforts due to the dangerous weather.
Residents are being urged to remain patient, with authorities warning that the outages may persist for several hours.
Flooded roads and emergency response in Nelson Mandela Bay
Several main roads across the city have been completely submerged, making rescue efforts even more challenging.
Stanford Road, Kariega Durban Road, and Rensburg Street are among the most affected areas, and metro police have manned key crossings to ensure safety.
Residents are advised to avoid using roads in the Kwazakhele Precinct, where stormwater pipes have been uplifted by the pressure, creating hazardous driving conditions.
The M17 road, a major thoroughfare, is especially dangerous, with drainage lids removed due to the flooding.
The metro has been overwhelmed with emergency calls, and evacuation efforts are ongoing for those who remain trapped.
However, dangerous road conditions and the continuing downpour are delaying the response.
