Cost of Cape Storms and Knysna

Local News Network‏ via Twitter

Cost of Cape Storms and Knysna fires ‘likely to exceed R4bn’ – Cape Chamber

Recovering from a disaster is costly. Recovering from two in one week is unprecedented.

Cost of Cape Storms and Knysna

Local News Network‏ via Twitter

Initially, the damage was predicted to cost between R3bn-4bn; but insurers, who are now taking into account uninsured property, predict that the final figure will be ‘billions more’ than initially predicted.

The head-spinning figures will be more horrifying news for residents of The Cape. Even before last week’s twin disasters, the effects of a widespread drought had already brought the region (and its resources) to its knees.

Read: Cape Storm kills five people, thousands lose their homes

Rather than buckling, Cape Chamber President Janine Myburgh has issued a rallying call to her citizens, and set out an optimistic path of how to go forward based on the community spirit she has already seen in the last seven days:

“No value can be placed on this, but at the same time, there have been wonderful examples of communities and businesses working together to help those in desperate need. The fortitude and generosity displayed are inspiring in a time of loss and depressing news.”

Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith claims that his office cannot estimate their own damage costs, as many external (non-government) forces responded to the events. He maintained that humanitarian relief is being provided to over 12,000 residents in the province’s settlements.

According to Alexander Forbes Insurance (AFI), the impact of the fire and storms in Knysna has resulted in claims of about R22m for the fire, and under R1m for the storm. Ebrahim Asmal is the executive head of claims and group sourcing for short-term insurer Santam. He has pledged to assist all clients who need help and has donated R1m to disaster relief efforts.

Tourism has become a seriously vulnerable industry after the devastation. Thirty-three separate businesses in Knysna have been affected, Clive Bennet (Knysna Tourism) revealed.

Read: South African Expat in the UK raises R280,000 for victims of Knysna inferno

A silver lining amongst the many clouds has come from the charitable spirit within the Garden Route town. As well as donations from Santam and charities, Knysna Fine Art has pledged to donate half of all profits to animal shelters and the red cross.

It is this human spirit that no storm or fire can ever take away from these wonderful communities.