While the NSRI was on alert and ready for all emergency calls this past weekend, the high winds, non-stop rains and heavy swells served as a chance to get essential training for extreme weather conditions.
South Africa (08 April 2024) – The South Africa Weather Services (SAWS) issued several weather warnings, which are still in effect today, after the stormy weekend. The NSRI has been helping emergency services protect those affected by the high winds, rain and rough seas. They were also able to use the weather to also complete essential volunteer training, ensuring the teams are equipped to handle the very worst weather conditions.
“NSRI volunteer rescue stations have used this weather pattern for training purposes, approaching safely, but to make the best use of the adverse weather to use for training to physically encounter the kinds of conditions we normally experience when responding to seagoing emergencies and inland swift water emergencies.”
Thankfully, the teams didn’t have any critical weather-related incidents at sea, or on inland waters over this weekend. Many of the members of the public opted to stay home and away from bodies of water. This afforded the teams a chance to complete their critical training.
According to the NSRI, the conditions over the weekend are set to continue in the coming days. They have issued follow-up warnings from SAWS, urging the public to proceed with caution.
“Our NSRI volunteer crews remain on high alert to assist DRM (Disaster Risk Management), Police and the emergency services as and when necessary.”
“We are appealing to the public, both inland and the maritime community to follow SAWS for updates.”
“The SAWS forecast Level 6 alert for wind and sea conditions and Level 9 alert for rain conditions, for parts of the Western Cape and beyond, appears to still be in place – by SAWS – and is being monitored by authorities, and we are appealing to everyone to have safety Top of Mind.”
- Do not attempt to wade through fast-flowing rivers
- Do not attempt to drive or cross through bridges submerged in water or bodies of water on roadways.
“We commend the efforts by DRM, Police and the emergency services for their swift response to (where) flooding has occurred and where strong winds has affected dwellings and communities.
We are also commending the boating, sailing and commercial seafaring maritime community for their safe approach to seagoing activities during this storm.
All services remain on high alert to respond to emergencies.”
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