Massive Storms Devastate Western Cape, Leaving Thousands Displaced and City Response Questioned
Severe storms have caused widespread devastation in the Western Cape region of South Africa, displacing thousands of residents and raising questions about the city’s response to the crisis. Over a month ago, heavy rainfall triggered extensive flooding, thunderstorms, gale-force winds, and rough seas, leading to severe damage to homes, roads, and infrastructure across formal and informal settlements in the area.
One of the hardest-hit areas was Sandvlei, located between the Eerste and Kuils rivers near Macassar. Approximately 10,000 residents in the Western Cape were affected by the relentless downpour that occurred overnight on September 24, 2023. As a result, many homes were left waterlogged, and possessions were ruined.
Charlotte Powell, the spokesperson for disaster risk management in the City, informed Daily Maverick that numerous residents are still unable to return to their homes due to lingering mildew and dampness. The City’s environmental health department conducted an inspection, and the residents are currently awaiting feedback on the situation. This feedback will determine when it will be safe for them to go back home.
A month after the storm, Daily Maverick revisited Sandvlei on October 26, 2023, accompanied by the humanitarian organization Gift of the Givers, which provided aid to the affected residents in September. Delea Graaf, a 50-year-old resident, and her two children initially sought shelter in the Macassar Town Hall, along with 14 other families. After enduring cramped living conditions and limited privacy for three weeks, they decided to return home, even though parts of their property were still damp.
Anna Davids, a 70-year-old resident, expressed her struggle to survive in the aftermath of the disaster, relying solely on faith. Unfortunately, she felt that the City of Cape Town had not responded adequately to the crisis, and the absence of support had shaken her faith in the city’s willingness to assist. According to her, the City needs to demonstrate that it genuinely cares about its citizens and provide the necessary assistance.
Carline Cookson, a 63-year-old resident, also sought refuge in the community hall, along with her children. She highlighted the difficulties of living in a communal space and the desire to regain the freedom and normalcy they once had in their own homes. Cookson’s family made the decision to return home, hoping to restore their lives and daily routines as much as possible.
However, for some residents of Sandvlei, the struggle continues. Pastor Mark Baatjies, a community leader and chairperson of the Greater Macassar Civic Association, expressed concern about the apparent lack of support from the City of Cape Town. He believes that City officials prioritize affluent areas over those in need, leaving the residents feeling neglected. Baatjies emphasized the importance of City authorities taking responsibility for the safety and well-being of their citizens, particularly in terms of preventing construction in flood-prone areas.
In response to these concerns, the City of Cape Town stated that its teams have been activated to assist affected residents. Soft relief efforts continue, and the human settlements teams have facilitated the safe relocation of affected residents. The Informal Settlements Management Department has collaborated with Disaster Risk Management and other departments and organizations to provide relief and address post-flood challenges.
As recovery efforts progress, some Sandvlei residents remain in the Macassar Town Hall, while others cautiously return to their damaged homes. Despite the City’s assurance of support, residents are still grappling with the long-lasting effects of the disaster and a sense of neglect from local authorities. As the rebuilding process continues, it is essential for the City of Cape Town to address these concerns and prioritize the well-being of all its residents.
