Cape Town – While residents of Sandvlei and Faure communities say flooding has not been this severe in decades, they are relieved that no one has lost their life as a result.
Residents were displaced during the recent heavy rains and they lost most of their belongings, which included appliances, furniture, clothes, and important documentation.
Local Ward Councillor Peter Helfrich on Tuesday, said: We will continue to monitor the situation and do everything in our power to keep our residents safe during this time
Helfrich explained that flooding occurred in informal settlements, largely due to it being situated in low-lying terrain, including waterlogged areas, wetlands and floodplains.
In other areas, flooding occurred due to illegal dumping into stormwater infrastructure, after it was cleared by the City of Cape Town teams.
Recounting events leading to their ordeal, resident Prelene Sedras: The banks of the river broke and the water rushed into our home very fast.
“I was not able to escape the flood through the door and had to climb through the window. All of us have lost so much during this time.
Councillor Helfrich, various rescue operations also took place in Faure, where residents had been stuck in their homes for hours on 14 June 2023.
The City of Cape Towns Disaster Risk Management and Fire and Rescue Services worked tirelessly throughout this period to keep our residents safe,” Helfrich said.
The Councillor said he accompanied rescue teams and personally witnessed how they risked their own lives to rescue residents.
“We have not had any deaths in our area since the flooding started,” said Helfrich, adding: “I would like to thank them for their commendable efforts.
The Councillor said he was there when Fire and Rescue Services rescued several people stuck in their flooded homes, including an elderly resident.
He said rescue teams carried the flood victims to safety using non-motorised inflatable rescue boats.
“Many churches, NGOs, and members of the community also worked with us to ensure that residents find shelter, and receive hot meals, clothes, and blankets,” said Helfrich.
“We also received assistance from the humanitarian organisation, Gift of the Givers, which we are grateful for.
“We expect more flooding in the area and want to ask people to continue to donate to these churches and NGOs.
Community leader Felicity Solomons said: I have been working with our Councillor, churches, and various other organisations to assist the flooding victims. Our poor residents have lost a lot and it is going to take some time for them to rebuild their lives.
