Load shedding suspended in Western and Eastern Cape due to floods

Eskom has confirmed the suspension of load shedding in the Western and Eastern Cape after storm damaged electricity infrastructure in the provinces.

The power utility said flooding had wreaked havoc with operations, and its technicians were on the scene to restore supply.

“Due to the widespread damage to electricity infrastructure caused by flooding in the Western and Eastern Cape coastal areas, load shedding will be suspended with immediate effect in these areas to ensure that the technical teams restore the supply of electricity safely.”

ALSO READ: Gauteng residents warned to brace for severe thunderstorms

It said Stage 3 load shedding would continue in other areas until further notice.

One person is reported missing and many displaced after devastating weather conditions across the Western Cape.

According to News24, a City of Cape Town’s disaster management team helped four people trapped in a house in Strand.

Flooding could get worse in Eastern Cape

The SA Weather Service said disruptions in the Eastern Cape would likely worsen, with flooding increasing.

“The flooding is likely to have one or more of the following impacts: widespread flooding of roads and settlements, dangerous fast flowing streams and deep water, communities not accessible/ cut off for a prolonged period, widespread damage to property, buildings, and loss of livelihoods and livestock”.

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It also warned of widespread and/or prolonged disruptions to essential services, widespread mudslides and soil erosion, potential breakage of dam, damage to mud-based dwelling, and damage to crops.

Storms to hit Gauteng

Meanwhile storm warnings have also be alerted for Gauteng on Monday afternoon.

Gauteng Weather said the adverse conditions are expected from about 1pm.

“The SA Weather Service has issued a warning for the possibility of severe thunderstorms on Monday, 25 September 2023 from 13:00-23:59 for the entire Gauteng province”.

It warned of potential threats of damaging winds, falling trees, and flying debris.

A storm in parts of the province last week left houses and electricity infrastructure damaged, affecting power and water supply to several areas.