George Municipality on High Alert for Level 6 Storm Surge

Issued by George Municipality, 07 July 2024, For Immediate Release

The George Municipality is on high alert following a Level 6 Storm Surge warning issued by SA Weather Service on Saturday. The warning predicts waves of 6-8 metres, reaching up to 10 metres on the south-western coast, including George’s coastal areas. This surge, combined with high waves and strong winds, poses a significant threat to coastal communities and infrastructure.

In response, the municipality has activated a contingency plan that integrates various services to effectively manage the anticipated floods on the coastal areas. Residents in Victoria Bay are requested to move their vehicles to the caravan park for the night. As a preventative measure, George Disaster Management Services will close Sands Road to Leentjiesklip Beach on Sunday afternoon. Fire officers will patrol during the peak hours of the storm surge, and Community Services will deploy additional traffic and law enforcement officers as necessary.

Residents are strongly encouraged to remain vigilant and exercise caution, as localised low-lying areas could experience flooding. The high-energy waves may also damage coastal infrastructure, including walkways, pipelines, property, roads, and rail routes along extended stretches of coastline. Beachfront activities such as swimming and shore/rock angling will be disrupted. Residents are advised to remove temporary structures on the beach or along the shoreline if possible.

For emergencies, please use the following contact details:
• After-Hours and Emergencies: 044 801 6300
• Fire and Rescue: 044 801 6311 or 044 801 6300
• Law Enforcement: 044 801 6350/89

Residents are encouraged to stay informed by following George Municipality’s social media pages, visiting the official website, and tuning in to local media for updated information.

Ends.