Flooding after storm

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - Graaff-Reinet locals welcomed a sudden downpour on Thursday 12 March, with over 30mm of rain measured in some areas.

The sudden downpour was so heavy, that some buildings and streets, such as Caledon Street, flooded. Some locals expressed their concern that more flooding will occur if the local municipality does not clear blocked storm drains.

"The water came in so fast, and now our place stinks because of the wet floors and carpets," said owner of Bambino Day Care Centre, Annelize Nagel. According to her, all the drains and ditches in front of the building are blocked. "I meant to report it to the municipality years ago, but with the drought I forgot.

"Then the problems came when it started to rain again." Nagel said older children of the centre helped her to clear water from the building, and a father of one of the children later removed some of the rubbish in the ditch with a stick.

"Gutters are continuously being cleaned by the municipality, but in between cleaning there is a possibility of blocking due to rain storms," said Acting Spokesperson for the municipality, Edwardine Abader. According to her, the municipality cannot guarantee that there will not be blockages.

A Graaff-Reinet woman clears water, after heavy downpour caused flooding in some streets. Photos: Kelly Cane

Abader reminded residents that the municipality cannot control the flow of excess storm water.

"The bylaws are clear that property owners must make provision for overland flow should the municipal system not be able to cope. The municipal system is only designed to cope for minimal flow design, not floods or heavy storms."

Abader urged residents to report blocked storm drains to the municipality. All service delivery queries can be directed to the call centre on 049 807 5801, 049 807 5802, 049 807 5803.

A Graaff-Reinet woman clears water, after heavy downpour caused flooding in some streets. Photos: Kelly Cane