MEC mobilises relief efforts for storm-hit Augrabies families

TEMPORARY shelter arrangements and the distribution of basic necessities are under way to assist more than 60 people who were displaced following a severe thunderstorm in the Augrabies area of the Kai !Garib Municipality on Tuesday.

High winds, heavy rainfall, and hail caused significant damage to property and infrastructure, resulting in one fatality and displacing approximately 12 families.

The MEC for Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (Coghsta), Bentley Vass, said earlier this week that a multi-disciplinary team had been assessing the situation.

“We extend our condolences to the family of the deceased who passed away in such a tragic manner. A multi-disciplinary team consisting of the local and district municipalities, different government departments, and emergency services led by the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) continues to assess the situation in the affected area,” said Vass.

“The team has been mobilised to work speedily and to involve state entities like Eskom to bring some normality to the distraught families. Temporary shelter has been made available by government for the affected families. The distribution of food, water and clothing is ongoing in the area.

“Government also dispatched a team to assess the damage at the local school, as well as provide psychological support to teachers and learners affected.”

He added that a comprehensive recovery plan will be developed to assist families in rebuilding their lives.