Karoo roads damaged as search continues near Oudtshoorn

KAROO: Heavy rain over the weekend damaged district roads in parts of the Northern Cape and sent rivers running high across the Karoo. Meanwhile, a search continued near Oudtshoorn on Sunday evening for a man whose vehicle was swept away at a low-water crossing.

Saag Jonker’s Toyota Land Cruiser was swept away by floodwaters while he attempted to cross the Olifants River about 3 km outside Oudtshoorn at around 13:00 yesterday, according to a statement from his family published by the Oudtshoorn Courant. Jonker was returning home after visiting farms in the area.

Divers, drone operators and a helicopter crew joined the search. Police divers told the newspaper that the river was flowing too strongly for them to enter the water. His family thanked those helping with the search and asked the public to respect their privacy and avoid spreading unconfirmed information.

Across the provincial border, Noordkaap Bulletin reported that heavy rain on Friday night and Saturday had washed out several district roads. The publication reported that a vehicle had encountered difficulties between Fraserburg and Loxton and described hazardous conditions on rural routes after localised flooding. The Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works issued road safety warnings on Saturday evening.

The full extent of the weekend’s damage had yet to be established at the time of going live. There was no confirmed regional repair bill, and road conditions could change as floodwater recedes and authorities inspect bridges and gravel routes.

For now, the clearest picture is one of disrupted rural access, while the search near Oudtshoorn continues. Residents and travellers should check current road notices before setting out and should not attempt to cross water flowing over a road or drift.