Parts of the Eastern Cape have been hit with heavy rains.
- Several roads were closed, and homes were flooded following heavy downpours in Nelson Mandela Bay on Saturday night.
- Disaster management teams were on the ground to assist affected people and areas.
- The municipality said some victims refused to be relocated as they feared losing their belongings.
Heavy rainfall caused severe flooding in parts of Nelson Mandela Bay in the Eastern Cape on Saturday night.
The municipality said in a statement on Sunday homes were flooded and several roads closed as a safety precautionary measure.
Safety and Security MMC Lawrence Troon added the municipality’s disaster management teams were on the ground to assist affected residents.
“We welcome the downpours because we are in desperate need of the rain as we are in the tight grip of a devastating drought.
“The metro remains on high alert and ready to evacuate people to places of safety,” he added.
However, some of the affected people have refused to be relocated.
“Some flood victims have refused to be relocated, citing fears of losing their belongings when they leave their homes. We will assist the affected communities where possible and relocate those that agree.
“Unfortunately, we cannot evacuate people against their will,” Troon said.
Affected areas include:
- Missionvale
- KwaZakhele
- New Brighton
- Jachvlate
- 3rd Avenue dip
- M4
- Corner of Uitenhage and Sidon roads
- Cuyler Bridge in Kariega