Western Cape schools shut down for safety as severe weather looms.
Image: Freepik
Schools in parts of the Eden and Central Karoo district will close for two days this week as severe rainfall is forecast across the region.
The announcement was issued on behalf of Education MEC David Maynier on Tuesday, following consultations with the Provincial Disaster Management Centre and the South African Weather Service (SAWS).
According to the provincial education department, all public ordinary and special needs schools in selected circuits of George, Knysna and Oudtshoorn will be closed Wednesday and Thursday as a precautionary safety measure for learners and teachers.
The department said the decision was taken due to warnings of heavy rainfall in the affected areas.
The closures apply to circuits 3 and 8 in George, circuit 4 in Knysna, and circuits 5 and 6 in Oudtshoorn. Dozens of schools across these circuits will be affected by the temporary shutdown.
"Our default position is always to keep schools open and only close schools in exceptional circumstances, but we are mindful of the severity of the warnings in place," read the statement.
The department said it will continue to monitor the developing weather situation and reassess conditions before the end of the week.
At this stage, all schools are expected to reopen on Friday unless further weather-related risks require additional closures.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to remain in contact with their schools for updates and to follow official communication channels for further announcements.
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Disaster Management Centre said it has activated its Joint Operations Centre (JOC) to enhance readiness and ensure a coordinated response towards heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
"This early activation is critical to maintaining a high level of preparedness and enabling a swift, effective response should conditions deteriorate, reaffirming the municipality’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and essential services," said the Eastern Cape municipality.
Cape Times