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GARDEN ROUTE NEWS – Emergency services remain on high alert across the Garden Route as massive volumes of floodwater continue to move through the district's river systems, resulting in further tragedy and ongoing disruption to communities.
A man lost his life after he and a woman attempted to cross the Klip River at Waboomskraal late on Thursday. According to authorities, both were swept away by the strong current.
Emergency Medical Services teams managed to rescue the woman, but despite extensive search efforts, the man could not be saved.
His body was recovered during a search operation early on Friday morning.
New search operation launched in Oudtshoorn
Rescue teams have also been deployed to the Oudtshoorn Mountain Resort area following reports that another man was washed away while attempting to cross a river.
Authorities said further information will be released once the incident has been fully assessed.
The latest incidents come as disaster management officials continue to warn residents against attempting to cross flooded rivers, streams and low-water bridges.
Overflowing dams fuel flood concerns
Although overnight rainfall was limited to isolated heavy showers, officials say the primary concern remains the vast amount of water flowing into the district from upstream areas.
Several major dams are currently overflowing, including the Gamkapoort Dam, which is reportedly spilling at approximately 170% capacity.
The Floriskraal, Stompdrift and Kammanassie dams are also overflowing, adding pressure to already swollen river systems.
Emergency services and SAPS members have been deployed to monitor river crossings and implement crowd-control measures to prevent public access to potentially dangerous structures.
Knysna water supply under pressure
While floodwaters remain a concern in some areas, water security has emerged as a growing challenge elsewhere in the district.
In Knysna, municipal officials continue to monitor the town's water situation closely. Main water supply pumps remain only partially operational, while reserve water levels at the Akkerkloof Dam have reportedly dropped to critically low levels.
In George, technical services teams are working to restore the water supply link between the Uniondale Dam and the town.
VIDEO: Supplied by Joseph Johnston, Mossel Bay Municipality
Hundreds still affected by flooding
Community halls across the district continue to accommodate residents displaced by flooding and related impacts.
Current numbers include:
- 65 people in Toekomsrus;
- 38 people in De Rust;
- 29 people in Ladismith; and
- Eight families at the Lyonville Community Hall in Uniondale.
Additional humanitarian assistance requests have been received from several communities.
In Zoar, 14 people require assistance, while 29 residents have been affected in Voorbaat. Authorities are also assessing support needs for approximately 110 people in the Vlakteplaas, Barandas and Snyberg areas.
Officials from the Department of Infrastructure have indicated that these areas remain accessible by 4x4 vehicles, allowing aid assessments to continue.
Schools remain closed as roads stay inaccessible
The severe weather continues to impact education across the region, with 21 schools remaining closed on Friday.
Most closures are linked to poor road conditions and accessibility challenges caused by flooding and infrastructure damage.
Authorities urge continued vigilance
Disaster management officials say conditions remain unstable despite improvements in weather.
Residents are urged to avoid flooded roads and river crossings, follow official warnings, and report emergencies immediately.
Authorities say monitoring efforts will continue throughout the district as floodwaters move through river systems and recovery operations remain underway.
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