Storm surge or mini-tsunami hits South African coastline

MOSSEL BAY – The South African Weather Services issued a Yellow Level 4 warning regarding gale force winds (60-70km/h) and significant wave heights of 5 – 7 metres, on Friday which has shown its impact at several places in Mossel Bay and surrounds on Saturday. The public is urged to stay clear from areas that could be affected an ocean rise as this is not a normal high tide with a storm surge. Numerous beaches and municipal infrastructure have been affected by the storm surge this afternoon during high tide. At present the following applies:

• Access for First and Second Beach Dana Bay is CLOSED to the public.

• Access to the Point has been RE-OPENED to the public.

• Access to Glentana beach has been CLOSED to the public.

Members of the public are advised, requested and reminded to stay clear of areas affected by the storm surge. There may be other beaches that pose a risk to the public. A further damage risk assessment will be done from first light on Sunday, 17 September and continue throughout the day. Further action, that may include but not be limited to the closure of beaches, will be taken once the damage risk assessment has been done. It has been noted that private infrastructure has also sustained damage, but the extent of this has not yet been determined.