Kouga Dam overflow forces evacuations in South Africa's Western Cape

The Kouga Dam in the Western Cape reached 113% capacity and began overflowing rapidly, prompting Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman to order an urgent evacuation of residents in low‑lying areas along the Gamtoos River. About 49 people, including children and the elderly, were rescued from the Gamtoos River Valley by multi‑agency teams using boats and jet‑powered craft, with no injuries or fatalities reported.

Two community halls – the Katrina Felix Hall in Thornhill and the Loerie Community Hall – were opened as shelters for displaced residents. Authorities also warned farmers to move livestock and equipment to higher ground. Road closures across the Garden Route District were imposed, and officials cautioned the public against crossing flooded roads or bridges.

The coordinated response involved the National Sea Rescue Institute, police, emergency medical services, disaster‑management teams and local volunteers, who worked under hazardous conditions to reach trapped residents and animals. The situation remains volatile as water levels stay high, and residents are urged to stay vigilant and heed further evacuation notices.