One death confirmed, several properties damaged during Western Cape spring tide

CAPE TOWN - Communities living near the coastline in the Western Cape and neighbouring Eastern Cape were still reeling from the effects of the high tides that swept through the area on Saturday.

A 93-year-old woman died during the storm, National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) spokesperson Craig Lambinon confirmed on Sunday.

It is understood that she was swept off her feet by waves that penetrated a car park in Wilderness, causing the cars to be swept away with the storm surge.

“Condolences are conveyed to the family, and we are gaining more information as the day progresses,” said Lambinon.

Scores of properties were also damaged by the spring tide, due to its excessive wave movements and strong winds.

The City of Cape Town Disaster Risk Management Centre said initial assessments found damage to eight properties in the Gordons Bay Bikini Beach area.

The centre added on Sunday that the city’s Department of Solid Waste began with clean-up operations along the beach, while traffic services and law enforcement were assisting with road closures.