WARNING: Storm surge in several parts along the coast NOW

A storm surge resulting in strong winds and high waves hit several parts of the Western Cape on Saturday.

WARNING: STORM SURGE IN SEVERAL PARTS ALONG THE COAST NOW

A storm surge is defined as the abnormal rise in seawater level during a storm. It is measured as the height of the water above the normal predicted astronomical tide.

“The surge is caused primarily by a storm’s winds pushing water onshore.”

The US National Ocean Service

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The public is warned to be cautious around the coastland and in inland rivers, lakes, and dams during storm conditions and strong winds.

Several videos of the destruction caused by the storm surge were shared on social media.

🌊⚠️Weather forecast for Saturday (16 September 2023).

Cold front moves east leaving behind a choppy sea state along our western, southern and south-eastern coastline. Strong to gale force winds will continue along these coastal areas as well. It will be windy over the interior. pic.twitter.com/owx7oyeWUU

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) September 15, 2023

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HERE ARE THE IMPACT-BASED WARNINGS

Impact-based warnings:

1. Orange level 5 warning for damaging winds and waves resulting in difficulty in navigation, damage to coastal infrastructure, beach erosion and possible rogue waves expected at Plettenberg Bay and Port Edward.
2. Yellow level 4 warning for storm surge in places along the coast between Plettenberg Bay and Fish River, resulting in coastal flooding due to an increased sea level of 0.6m above the highest astronomical high tide.
3. Yellow level 2 warning for coastal winds resulting in difficulty in navigation at sea is expected between Cape Agulhas and Plettenberg Bay.
4. Yellow level 4 warning for damaging waves resulting in localised disruption of small harbours and/or ports for a short period of time are expected between Alexander Bay and Plettenberg Bay until Sunday.

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SEVERAL PEOPLE WERE EVACUATED, INCLUDING CHILDREN AND ANIMALS

“A number of people were safely evacuated, including a dog, a bird, two women and two children, as well as two men. They were evacuated from their caravans and taken to the gatehouse at three pools.”

 National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) spokesperson Craig Lambinon,

No injuries were reported.

PLEASE SEND US YOUR PHOTOS AND VIDEOS:

Please WhatsApp your photos and videos to  060 011 0211. Please remember to include your name, surname, and as many details and information as you have. You are, of course, welcome to send anonymous tips and information.

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