It’s Topical | 18 die from severe weather – Is SA prepared for climate emergencies?
In this episode we focus on the devastating severe weather conditions that have swept across parts of South Africa, leaving a trail of destruction, claiming lives and displacing communities.
The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, is convening an intergovernmental committee on disaster management following deadly weather conditions that have affected six provinces. According to government, at least 18 lives have been lost, with the Western Cape recording the highest number of fatalities, while scores of residents have been left homeless and critical infrastructure severely damaged.
As communities grapple with the aftermath, questions remain around disaster preparedness, emergency response and long-term solutions to climate-related disasters.
Joining us to unpack the impact and response efforts are Jurgens Dyssel, Chief Director of Policy, Institutional Development and Compliance at the South African National Disaster Management Centre; Dr John Okedi, Civil Engineering and Water Resources Expert at the University of Cape Town; and Suzette Little, Community Activist and Former Ward Councillor in Athlone, Cape Town.
We are also joined by callers from affected areas, sharing first-hand accounts of the devastation, response efforts and the realities communities are facing on the ground.
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