Large parts of Cape Town declared disaster zones

South African President Thabo Mbeki has declared several districts near Cape Town disaster areas following heavy rains and floods that left thousands homeless. The president’s office said in a statement that Mbeki had signed the proclamation on Monday.

The declaration under the ‘Emergency Act’ means that a committee made-up of representatives from local, provincial and central government can be established. The committee would assess the situation and decide on what action needs to be taken. The declaration also allows for national government to release money to help with the recovery operations. The weather bureau in Pretoria has predicted that the rain will continue at least until Friday. Reports at the weekend said the worst-hit areas were the desolate and impoverished Cape Flats near the city’s airport.