Photo by Kim Bouchier at the Brass Bell in Kalk Bay, 2015

Home » #CapeStorm – Brace Yourselves! Everything You Need to Know! And the Memes

#CapeStorm – Brace Yourselves! Everything You Need to Know! And the Memes

Okay, first the serious stuff. Here is everything you need to know about what some are calling ‘Dik Wednesday‘ (inspired by the surf movie ‘Big Wednesday’). The Western Cape could be in for a very, very severe storm if predictions are correct. (Scroll down also for some of the memes and jokes that are already being […]

By SAPeople
06-06-17 18:34
in Eish!
Photo by Kim Bouchier at the Brass Bell in Kalk Bay, 2015

Okay, first the serious stuff. Here is everything you need to know about what some are calling ‘Dik Wednesday‘ (inspired by the surf movie ‘Big Wednesday’). The Western Cape could be in for a very, very severe storm if predictions are correct. (Scroll down also for some of the memes and jokes that are already being shared…)

  • The extreme weather is expected to arrive at around midnight tonight… and last into Thursday.
  • Heavy rain expected particularly in the Peninsula. In addition extensive gale force winds (up to 90km/hour, even higher in some areas), very high seas (up to 10 or 12m), rains of up to 50mm, and cold weather conditions including snow on the high-lying areas can be expected.
  • There are risks of localised flooding, mudslides, informal settlement fires, motor accidents (please don’t drive unless you honestly have to).
  • Provincial as well as Municipal Disaster Management Centres remain fully operational with officials on standby 24/7.
  • All schools are closed for Wednesday 7 June.
  • Despite the expected storm, the drought crisis will continue as continuous rainfall is needed over many weeks for our dam levels to reach sufficient levels, say the experts.

How Can I Prepare for a Flood?

  • Identify the risk in your local area.
  • Prepare a home emergency plan, and identify risks around your home.
  • Remove leaves (from downpipes or gutters) or any other items that can increase the risk of flooding in your area.
  • Have an evacuation plan. Everyone in your family has to know where to go to find shelter.
  •  Prepare an emergency toolkit. This should include a first aid kit, torch and portable radio with batteries, candles and waterproof matches, drinking water, a multi-tool, whistle and emergency contact numbers.

What Should I do during a flooding?

  • Monitor current flood warnings. Listen to the radio for emergency warnings, evacuation advice and weather updates.
  • Avoid entering floodwater unless it is necessary, and never underestimate the strength of floodwater, even if you are inside a vehicle.
  • Follow all instructions from emergency authorities.
  • Turn off all electricity and water and take your cellphone with you.
  • Assist elderly and disabled neighbours.

What Should I do after the flood?

  • Before entering your house, wait until the water has dropped below floor level.
  • Check with electricity and water authorities to know whether it is safe for you to use these resources.
  • Be aware of contamination if water sources have been flooded; this could be unsafe to drink.

In case of emergency, call 112 (from any cell phone) or:

Cape Winelands: Langeberg Municipality – 0860 88 1111

Eden District: 044 805 5071

Central Karoo: 023 414 2603

West Coast: 022 433 8700

Overberg: 028 271 8111

City of Cape Town: 107 landline or 021 480 7700

The above is issued on behalf of the Department Environmental Affairs and Development Planning

The Jokes & Memes on Social Media

As the Western Cape braces for a downpour… there’s been a deluge of jokes on the internet. Here are some of the light-hearted tweets, to make those gale force winds feel like a breeze!

https://twitter.com/realsarahkate/status/872115066988093449

https://twitter.com/AidanNotNadia/status/872113054552666113