PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Severe flooding was reported across several parts of Nature's Valley yesterday after heavy rainfall throughout Wednesday caused rapidly rising water levels, infrastructure damage and hazardous conditions.

According to an emergency update issued by Bitou Municipality at 15:42, municipal officials urged residents to conserve water after freshwater supply pumps were shut down due to dangerously strong river currents.

While storage reservoirs had been filled to capacity, authorities warned that pumping operations could not safely continue until conditions improved. Low-lying areas of the village remained at risk as floodwaters continued to rise.

Municipal offices were closed and staff sent home, although patrol teams remained active in affected areas. 

Authorities issued a critical warning for the vicinity of the municipal office and Phyl Martin Park, where floodwaters had dislodged a municipal septic tank, creating a significant safety hazard. Residents were advised to avoid the area completely.

Road conditions also deteriorated. St. Patrick's Avenue experienced severe flooding after stormwater drains became blocked by debris, while increasing rockfalls were reported on the western side of the R102 Groot River Pass.

The eastern pass remained open. Water levels at the Groot River Bridge continued to rise rapidly throughout the day.

Communications were further hampered by widespread cellular and network outages across Nature's Valley.

In one incident, a white Mercedes-Benz vehicle was reported partially submerged and drifting in floodwaters on St. George's Street opposite Heather Street. The vehicle was unoccupied at the time.

Municipal officials continued to monitor conditions and urged residents to prioritise safety, avoid flooded areas and remain alert as the weather situation developed.

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