The South African Weather Services (SAWS) issued a warning across the country. On 21 of April 2019, severe thunderstorms were experienced in Free State, Kwa-Zulu Natal and Eastern Cape. In addition, more wet conditions in Durban and East London were expected to persist on the 22 of April 2019. The SAWS will continue to monitor any further developments relating to this weather system and will issue subsequent updates as required. The public is urged and encouraged to follow weather forecast on the television and radio. As indicated on the above heavy rainfall was experience across the country and our volunteers and staff conducted rapid damage assessments.
Furthermore, 389 people from Port St johns have been evacuated to a community hall and more than 200 people evacuated to four community halls in Durban with 52 fatalities reported in Durban. National society also continues to receive reports from other areas which anticipate floods. It has been highlighted that the impact of this disaster incident is severe as it caused damages to the property and infrastructure in the community. JOC stakeholders have been advised to continue to monitor the situations in their respective areas. Areas affected with number of people are as follows;
SA RED CROSS INTERVENTION
_Activation of staff and volunteers
_Conduct assessments at affected areas
_Provision of hot meals for people that have been evacuated (Soup kitchen)
_Work alongside the disaster management centers to alert public and issue early warning messages and safety tips.
_Provision of psycho-social support to those affected
_Procurement and distribution of relief items (such as blankets, mattresses, food parcels and hygiene packs)
_Documentation of the intervention while on the ground
_Public appeal for donations and support through media
