Ramaphosa Declares National Disaster: What Affected Families Should Do Now

South Africans affected by severe weather conditions are being urged to seek assistance through local disaster management structures after government declared a national state of disaster. At least 10 people have died following heavy rainfall, flooding, damaging winds, thunderstorms and snowfall across parts of the country.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said national, provincial and municipal authorities are working together to support affected communities as rescue and recovery operations continue under difficult conditions.

For families dealing with flooding, damaged homes, blocked roads or power disruptions, officials say it is important to report emergencies and losses as quickly as possible through local municipalities or disaster management centres.

Residents in affected areas should:

• Report missing persons or emergencies immediately to SAPS, emergency services or municipal disaster teams
• Avoid crossing flooded roads, rivers or bridges
• Follow weather alerts and evacuation instructions from local authorities
• Keep identity documents, medication and important belongings in waterproof containers
• Document property damage with photos where possible for relief assessments or insurance claims

Government said the National Disaster Management Centre is coordinating responses linked to infrastructure damage, service disruptions and displaced communities.

The declaration of a national state of disaster could allow faster mobilisation of emergency resources, temporary shelter support and infrastructure repairs in heavily affected areas.

President Ramaphosa also warned that severe winter weather may continue to affect parts of the country in the coming weeks.

“As winter sets in, we are vulnerable to events which we may be able to forecast but whose actual intensity in specific locations we may not be able to predict,” the President said.

Communities are encouraged to monitor updates from:

• SA Weather Service
• Local municipalities
• Provincial disaster management teams
• Community radio stations

People needing urgent humanitarian assistance can also seek help through local NGOs, churches, community organisations and temporary relief centres operating in some affected regions.

The Presidency said rescue and recovery teams are continuing operations despite difficult weather conditions limiting some air support and emergency access.