Staff Reporter
The Free State Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has activated support teams after the SA Weather Service issued a warning for potential floods in the western parts of the province.
There are fears the continued rains could result in major disruptions in areas which border the northern parts of the Northern Cape.
CoGTA spokesperson Zolile Lobe says there are already signs of floods in the southern Free State in areas such Philippolis, Bethulie, Reddersburg and Luckhoff.
“Widespread flooding of roads has been experienced around southern Free State,” said Lobe in a statement.
“Motorists are advised to drive with caution, allow enough following distance between them and other cars also keep their headlights on,” he added.
Potential floods have also been identified in Bloemfontein, Botshabelo and Thaba Nchu.
Lobe said residents are encouraged to stay indoors.
He advised people who may see potential flooding in their areas to urgently alert the authorities.
“Please ensure that children don’t play unsupervised. Urgently report any suspected disappearance of family members.”
CoGTA is responsible for disaster management and it expects to roll out emergency support to communities affected by the heavy rains.
The human settlements department and local municipalities are expected to offer temporary accommodation should the need arise.
Lobe said the police and other emergency units will remain on standby until the rains subside.
“We plead with the community of the Free State to tread carefully and take serious precautions to avoid drowning and watch over the vulnerable members of community,” he said.
The rains are expected to persist for the next few days in different parts of the province.