Government is working around the clock to enhance the weather early warning system, which is core to the State’s preparedness for disaster events, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) said on Monday.

“We have strengthened our collaboration with the SAWS [South African Weather Service] to ensure accurate, timely weather warnings reach every corner of our country, especially vulnerable communities,” CoGTA Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa said.

By providing early information about potential hazards like thunderstorms, flash floods, lightning and heat waves, the Minister said citizens can be empowered to take the necessary precautions, and protect their lives and properties. Hlabisa was speaking during a media briefing, where he focused on South Africa’s readiness for the upcoming summer and disaster preparedness.

Key points included in his address are the devastating floods in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, which recently took place, leading to significant displacement and loss of life. Hlabisa said the SAWS will provide a seasonal forecast, as the country has experienced an increase in disaster events recently.

The Minister said a multi-sectoral approach has been adopted, involving collective efforts from government, the private sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to ensure an inclusive response. Search and rescue contingency planning, the Minister said, is critical for efficiently responding to situations where individuals are lost or in immediate danger.

Government is working with local emergency services, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), South African Search and Rescue (SASAR) and community volunteers. Hlabisa said it is crucial to streamline operations and reduce response times.

In partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), CoGTA has initiated the redistribution of unused firefighting vehicles to bolster municipal firefighting capabilities and ensure local services are better equipped for the challenges in summer. CoGTA has coordinated the preparation of multi-hazard contingency plans by all provinces through the respective Provincial Disaster Management Centres (PDMCs) to ensure the state of readiness within the country.

“The administrative and political structures are operational across the spheres. I am facilitating the Intergovernmental Committee on Disaster Management (ICDM), consisting of political leadership across the spheres to deliberate and provide strategic support on disaster management-related issues within our respective legislated mandates,” Hlabisa said.

Educating citizens

CoGTA is educating citizens to protect themselves and their communities from natural hazards. “Disaster management should not be the role of government only. Everyone has a role to play. Recognising the high vulnerabilities associated with informal settlements, fire services are actively conducting community awareness campaigns, distributing fire safety materials, and maintaining community-based rapid response teams for immediate intervention,” the Minister said. He called on all citizens to remain vigilant and responsive to the guidance, warnings and safety tips of SAWS, disaster management officials and relevant authorities.

“These warnings and the safety tips we share are not just routine; they are critical and could mean the difference between life and death in moments of crisis.

“The safety of our communities is our highest priority, and we plead with everyone to take these calls seriously. By staying informed and prepared, you protect yourself and contribute to the resilience of your neighbours and loved ones.” Originally posted on SAnews.gov.za