Over 100 people have been displaced in Kariega in the Eastern Cape after heavy rains hit the province last night. Various roads were also closed in different arrears in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro including Gqeberha and Kariega following the floods while KwaNobuhle had no drinking water after a water plant was flooded.

COMMUNITIES EVACUATED

Speaking to SABC News this morning, Gift of the Givers Foundation project manager Ali Sablay said they received calls for aid around 3:30am informing them of the situation. "We had a meeting with the Nelson Mandela Bay disaster management teams at around 4am and they informed us that they would have to evacuate community members," Sablay said, adding that community members were being transported to school halls and churches. He added that the Gift of the Givers teams will be assisting and an urgent list has been sent to them for blankets, mattresses, personal hygiene items and hot meals to help flood victims who are currently accommodated in shelters, halls, and churches.

FLOODING SAFETY 

Director of Safety and Security at Nelson Mandela Bay, Shadrack Sibiya, confirmed that over 100 people were evacuated in Kariega in the early hours of this morning. "Those who are displaced are in shelters, halls and churches. We will provide them with bare necessities like blankets and warm food from our donors. With the rains expected to continue today, Sibiya pleaded with communities to keep the kids at home for their safety. "Communities should monitor the rising water levels and evacuate the areas to a safer place or higher spot when the water level rises. Do not cross through flooded roads or bridges. Motorists are advised to apply extra caution and avoid driving through flooded areas," Sibiya said.