Margate faced extensive floods after a heavy downpour late on Sunday, 14 April 2024.
Destruction caused by Margate floods caught on camera
Margate residents and surrounding areas were caught off guard by the rapid onset of the floods.
Social media and local WhatsApp groups were flooded with videos depicting the severe impact, particularly along Marine Drive where water torrents damaged paving and infrastructure.
One notable video showed water rushing towards the beach, causing havoc in its path.
Local security personnel were seen assisting motorists stranded on the toll road, pulling them to safety from their submerged vehicles.
Additionally, the floods compromised electrical services, with Margate experiencing a blackout after lightning struck a transformer.
Power was restored, but the area around the Sasol Garage intersection remained impassable. The floodwaters also inflicted damage on a sewage pump station, exacerbating the situation
Tragically, rescuers working to clear debris in Margate recovered the bodies of four victims reportedly killed during the overnight storm.
While an inquest will get underway to determine the cause of death, reports suggest the victims were in a vehicle that washed off a bridge on the N2, on Sunday evening.
Margate weather forecast for Tuesday, 16 April 2024
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings for continued disruptive rain and localised flooding in the southeast regions of the province.
Thandiwe Gumede, a meteorologist with the service, predicts an 80% chance of rain in coastal areas including Margate, Port Edward, and Port Shepstone.
The forecast for Margate on Tuesday includes overcast skies with intermittent thunderstorms and light winds from the west.
Temperatures will hover between 20°C and 24°C, with precipitation expected to reach around 5.1 mm. Residents are urged to prepare for more adverse weather conditions.
What to do during a flood
During a flood, safety is paramount.
Residents should stay informed through local news updates and weather forecasts. It is crucial to avoid floodwaters, both on foot and in vehicles, as they may be deeper and faster-moving than they appear.
Secure important documents and valuables in waterproof containers and move to higher ground if in a flood-prone area. Following evacuation orders from local authorities is essential for personal safety.
Keeping emergency supplies such as water, food, flashlights, and a first-aid kit is recommended, especially in areas where flood warnings have been issued.
PLEASE NOTE: The third-party content below is shared on our platform for journalistic purposes. Swisher Post, its parent company, partners and affiliates shall not be held liable for any consequence that arises from the journalistic duties performed in sharing this content.