Chapman's Peak closed
The Western Cape has been hard hit by storms in the past few days and weeks as unseasonal ‘spring’ weather hit the province. Photo: canva

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Cape Storm: City parks and cemeteries battle impact

Cape Town’s Parks Department struggled with water table problems after the Cape storm brought heavy rainfall, causing difficulties.

By Bonolo Moloi
29-09-23 08:56
in Featured
Chapman's Peak closed
The Western Cape has been hard hit by storms in the past few days and weeks as unseasonal ‘spring’ weather hit the province. Photo: canva

Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department faced challenges dealing with water table issues due to heavy rain after the Cape storm.

The department had implemented measures in August to address the impact of heavy rainfall earlier. However according to the City, the recent severe weather thwarted those efforts.

ALSO READ:Cape Town grapples with floods, evacuations, and road closures

Cape Storm
Some of the tree damage and minor flooding damage due to the Cape Storm. Images-City of Cape Town.

“Teams have been hard at work clearing fallen trees and managing waterlogged areas.

CAPE STORM:CITY PARKS AND CEMETERIES IMPACTED

The department had implemented measures in August to address the impact of heavy rainfall earlier. However, the recent Cape storm thwarted those efforts.

Teams have been hard at work clearing fallen trees and managing waterlogged areas.

ALSO READ:MORE disruptive RAIN, winds and FLOODING expected today

A fallen tree in Maitland cemetery. Image-Cape Town gov.za

Rusthof Cemetery in the Helderberg region temporarily suspended burial services due to flooded access roads. Other affected cemeteries like Maitland, Plumstead, Gugulethu, Langa, and Ottery remain open, but some areas for reburials are temporarily inaccessible.

“The department is closely monitoring the situation and striving to resolve challenges caused by adverse weather. Safety is a priority, and they aim to resume normal cemetery operations soon.”

ALSO READ: WATCH: Flooding, road closures and damages due to WEATHER

An access road at Rustof cemetery, Image- Cape Town gov.za

COUNCILLOR EXPRESSED GRATITUDE FOR THE COOPERATION BY COMMUNITY

Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia Van der Ross, expressed gratitude for the public’s understanding and cooperation during this challenging period.

Emergency tree teams responded to nearly 150 incidents between September 23 and 25, swiftly addressing fallen trees to ensure public safety.

ALSO READ:Safety tips for Cape Regions as level 9 torrential rains approach

From May to August, there were 76 tree emergencies, more than double the previous winter’s number.

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