Central Karoo, June 5, 2024 – Yesterday the Oudtshoorn Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness EMS/AMS rescue helicopter was dispatched by the METRO control centre for two separate flood rescues in the Central Karoo.
First Mission: Meiringspoort, Swartberg Mountains
In the first incident, two individuals found themselves trapped at the waterfall in Meiringspoort, located on the Swartberg Pass. They were caught between two drifts as rocks had fallen, blocking the road, and the river’s flow was too fast to cross by vehicle. One of the stranded individuals managed to walk to a location with cellphone coverage and called the METRO control room for help.
Second Mission: Klaarstroom, Prince Albert Municipality
In the second rescue mission, four delivery van drivers were caught in a flash flood in Klaarstroom on Tuesday. They were able to escape their vehicles before they were swept away and took refuge at a nearby farm, where they spent the night. The rescue team airlifted the individuals after completing the first mission.
All six individuals were airlifted to the AMS Oudtshoorn base in good health. Upon arrival, they were provided with a warm meal. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the severe weather.
For further updates on the floods, visit https://www.facebook.com/gardenroutedm.
