South Africa: Flooding and associated disruptions ongoing in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, as of Oct. 24

Flooding and associated disruptions are ongoing across parts of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in Eastern Cape Province as of Oct. 24. Heavy rainfall occurred across parts of Eastern Cape Province Oct. 21-23, triggering flooding in some areas, with Gqeberha, Kariega, and other parts of the Nelson Mandela Bay area worst affected. As of Oct. 24, authorities have reported at least ten flood-related fatalities and around 3,000 people have been displaced from flood-affected areas. At least 30 homes have been damaged by the flooding and several roads and bridges have been made impassable. Cloudy but generally drier conditions are expected in the region Oct. 24-26, with light showers and isolated thunderstorms possible Oct. 25-30.

Authorities could issue further mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.