Discovery of Ancient DNA From Antelope Fossils in South Africa Opens a New Window on the Past
Researchers managed to extract DNA from African fossils dating back to the last ice age.
Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay Robbed of Its Arts Festival
It is disappointing and unacceptable that the Bitou Municipality dragged its feet in appointing a new tourism service provider. Consequently, the Plett Arts Festival cannot take place this year. The mandate of the Plettenberg Bay Tourism Association lapsed on 30 June 2026. The Municipality undertook to award the new tourism services tender by 1 July, […]
The post Bitou’s administrative foot-dragging robs Plettenberg Bay of its Arts Festival appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Toddler Deceased After Reportedly Falling into Storm Water Pond
At 17h16, Friday, 17 July, NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty crew and emergency services were activated following an urgent request for assistance from Plettenberg Bay’s First Responders who were on the scene with Police at New Horizons where a 3 year old local male toddler was missing in the vicinity of a storm water reservoir. First …
Females Assisted at Robberg Nature Reserve and Keurbooms Beach
Jaco Kruger, NSRI Plettenberg Bay station commander, said: In 2 separate incidents, on Monday and on Tuesday, injured patients were assisted by NSRI. At 14h56, Monday, 6 April, NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty crew were activated following reports of a lady injured on the Robberg Nature Reserve hiking trail. Cape Nature were alerted and NSRI crew …
Brutal Double Murder of Elderly Couple in the Crags
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) in the Garden Route condemns the brutal double murder of an elderly couple on a farm in Glen Loerie, The Crags, near Plettenberg Bay. The murder of the 71-year-old woman and 77-year-old man is a tragic example of the growing level of violence and brutality affecting rural communities, which […]
The post Freedom Front Plus condemns brutal double murder of elderly couple in The Crags appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Progress Report on Periodic Maintenance of Roads Near Plettenberg Bay
Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers today inspected roadworks near Plettenberg Bay currently being undertaken by his department. He is satisfied that good progress is being made on a Western Cape Department of Infrastructure (DOI) contract to do periodic maintenance on four roads near Plettenberg Bay in the Garden Route District Municipality, including Piesang …
Green Scorpions Target Controversial Garden Route Motocross Track
Owner of the Harper’s Creek motocross track near Harkerville Forest must repair the damage to vegetation
Colder weather expected next week
Colder weather expected next week
South Africans can brace themselves for cold weather conditions in the new week as two cold frontal systems are expected to develop from Monday until Friday.
According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the two cold frontal systems are expected to develop from 19 until 23 May 2025 with a high likelihood of disrupting the current mild to warm weather conditions that has been prevailing for some days.
“On Monday, 19 May, a cold front will make landfall over the south-western parts of the country, resulting in wet, cold, and windy conditions over the western parts of the Western Cape. While this system will not be intense, it serves as a precursor to the more significant weather system that will follow the next day.
“On Tuesday, 20 May, the above-mentioned weather conditions will spread to the east, affecting the Namakwa District of the Northern Cape and the Eastern Cape,” the weather service said.
This continued impact of the weather conditions will be due to a well-developed cold front, resulting in isolated to scattered showers and rain.
Rainfall accumulations are expected to range between 15 to 25 mm, with a possibility of reaching 30 to 50 mm in mountainous areas.
“The persistent and continuous rainy conditions may lead to localised floods, particularly in areas with poor drainage and low-lying regions. Strong and gusty westerly to north-westerly winds, with wind speeds averaging between 55 and 65 km/h, are expected across the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and the Eastern Cape more especially over the interior.
“Possible impacts might result in outdoor activities being disrupted with a high likelihood of localised damage to infrastructure, uprooted trees, increased traveling time on the roads, problems for high sided vehicles, especially along the national routes through the provinces as well as disruptions to power lines,” SAWS said.
For maritime operators and coastal residents, westerly to north-westerly gale-force winds (65-75 km/h) are expected along the coastline, particularly from Alexander Bay through to Plettenberg Bay.
These high winds will result in very rough seas on Tuesday and Wednesday, leading to sea conditions that could impact small vessels and coastal activities.
There is also a possibility of abnormal waves along the south-eastern coast, with wave heights of 5 metres to 6.5 metres, occasionally peaking at 7 metres, with a 10 seconds wave period on Wednesday.
“In addition, freezing levels are expected to drop considerably, creating conditions favourable for some snowfall over high-lying areas and a general drop in temperatures. These very cold conditions are expected to spread to the central and the eastern parts of the country from Tuesday late evening, persisting until Friday morning, 23 May 2025,” SAWS said.
The weather service will continue to monitor any further developments relating to the weather systems and will issue subsequent updates as required.
Updates may be followed on X (@SAWeatherServic), Facebook (South African Weather Service) or other SAWS-supported social media platforms. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 05/18/2025 - 12:10
76 views
Donkey Sanctuary’s Promised Land Turns Sour
Slaughter may await rescued animals if farm’s buyer obtains eviction order
Plettenberg Bay: Body of Unidentified Man Recovered
A body of an unidentified man, sadly deceased, was recovered from the surf zone. It remains unclear the circumstances and Police are investigating. An inquest docket has been opened by Police. Jaco Kruger, NSRI Plettenberg Bay station commander, said: At 13h33, Tuesday, 18 March, NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty crew were activated following reports of lifeguards …
Thunderstorms expected in several parts of the country
Thunderstorms expected in several parts of the country
Severe thunderstorms are expected over the North West, Gauteng, extreme south western Mpumalanga and eastern and central parts of the Free state as well as the western parts of Kwa-Zulu Natal and parts of the Easter Cape.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) on Sunday said isolated showers and thundershowers can be expected over the east and central parts of the country.
“Along the south-west parts of the country a cold front is expected to make landfall resulting in showers and rain along the south coast,” meteorologist at the SAWS, Samkelisiwe Thwala said.
Yellow level 2 and Yellow level 1 warnings have also been issued.
“A Yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms causing heavy downpours, large amounts of small hail, strong damaging winds and excessive lightning that will result in localised flooding of susceptible settlements, roads and low-lying areas, localised damage to properties as well as localised disruptions to municipal services are expected over the North West, Gauteng, extreme south western Mpumalanga and eastern and central parts of Free state as well as the western parts of Kwa-Zulu Natal and extreme eastern parts of the Easter Cape.
“A Yellow level 1 warning for damaging winds leading to difficulty in navigation at sea, and small vessels at risk of capsizing in locality is expected between Cape Agulhas and Plettenberg Bay as well as between Coffee Bay and Port Edwards,” she said.
In addition, a Yellow level 1 warning for strong damaging winds that could lead to localised damage to settlements both formal and informal, are expected in places over Chris Hani District Municipality, Walter Sisulu Local Municipality and Senqu Local Municipality as well as the central and the southern parts of Northern Cape and over the western parts of the Free State.
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the national Reconciliation Day message to the nation in Vredendal in the Western Cape tomorrow.
“Sunny conditions can be expected with cool temperatures with no anticipation of adverse weather,” Thwala said of Monday’s commemoration.
Asked on whether Gauteng can expect heatwave conditions in the new week, Thwala said there “is no heatwave expected for the upcoming week as temperatures are expected to range between warm and hot.”
She urged holiday makers visiting various places across the country to stay safe and adhere to the severe weather alerts issued. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 12/15/2024 - 13:20
151 views
Houses Handed Over in Ebenhaezer, Bitou
Yesterday, Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, handed over eight housing units to beneficiaries of the Ebenhaezer Housing Project in Plettenberg Bay, Bitou. As part of the Ebenhaezer Housing Project, a total of 179 sites are being developed, of which Phase 1 includes 154 Breaking New Ground (BNG) units, 25 First Home Finance (FHF) …
Plettenberg Bay: Surfski Rescue
Ross Badenhorst, NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty coxswain, said: At 13h34, Tuesday, 24 September, NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty crew were activated following reports of a double surfski, with a local mom and daughter onboard, in difficulties offshore of Natures Valley. NSRI crew responded directly to the scene while the NSRI rescue craft The Courtenay’s Rescuer was …
Afrika Tikkun Bambanani Launches “Bamba Learn” in Bitou Community, Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay, South Africa—In a momentous event that celebrated both innovation and legacy, Afrika Tikkun Bambanani introduced its groundbreaking educational app, “Bamba Learn,” to the Bitou community. The launch took place at the newly completed Sabrina Love Farm, a site rich with meaning as it was built in memory of Sabrina Lubner, cherished daughter of …
Transformative Impact: Physiotherapy Students from Wits University Make a Difference
At Wits University, 50 dedicated 3rd and 4th-year physiotherapy students have gone above and beyond their academic commitments to give back to the community. Each week, these compassionate young people devote their time to working with children who face gross motor difficulties, bringing joy and significant improvements to their lives. They arrive at the Afrika …
Heavy rains expected for Opening of Parliament Address
Heavy rains expected for Opening of Parliament Address
Heavy rains and cold weather is expected in Cape Town tomorrow evening as President Cyril Ramaphosa convenes a joint sitting of the newly established two Houses of Parliament to deliver the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA).
South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecaster, Samkelisiwe Thwala, told SANews on Wednesday that isolated scattered showers and rain with a portion of a cold front are expected in the Western Cape, with South Western parts expecting 80% chance of rain and showers on Thursday.
“We also have three weather alerts that are associated with cold fronts. [There is a] Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive rain, leading to localised flooding of roads, which is expected over the Cape Winelands, City of Cape Town, parts of the West Coast, and Theewaterskloof Municipalities,” Thwala said.
Thwala warned of a further cold front approaching on Friday.
“It is going to be two-days of rainy and cold weather. Strong winds and damaging waves are also predicted for the coastal areas up to Plettenberg Bay on the southeast coast,” Thwala said.
Opening of Parliament
The opening of Parliament, which will be attended by members of both Houses, the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces, will mark the start of the new five-year parliamentary cycle.
The address provides President Ramaphosa with an opportunity to outline the key priorities and policies of the seventh administration.
The new administration is made up of several political parties that formed a Government of National Unity founded on the respect for the Constitution, the Bill of Rights in its entirety, a united South Africa, and the rule of law.
The Opening of Parliament Address also coincides with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day, which calls on people around the world to take action to help change the world for the better, and by doing so, build a global movement for good.
Government has invited all South Africans to be part of the Opening of Parliament Address at 7pm.
South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this national milestone.
Proceedings will also be covered via government and Parliament social media accounts. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:01
486 views
The Run For Rosa Foundation Supports SADAG With Marathon Initiative
The Run for Rosa Foundation was born as a heartfelt tribute to Rosa Carlyle Mitchell, the late cousin of its founder, Stu Rayner. Rosa’s life was cut tragically short on her 21st birthday. Inspired by her memory, Rayner embarked on an extraordinary journey in 2017 – running 10 marathons in just 13 days. This incredible …
Western Cape prepares for inclement weather
Western Cape prepares for inclement weather
The Western Cape Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Department says the province is expecting a series of cold fronts with adverse weather conditions starting this weekend and continuing into most of next week.
Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, Anton Bredell, said the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) was briefed on Saturday by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) on the approaching weather systems.
The weather service has since issued several warnings for heavy rains and rains:
- A level 4 warning for heavy rain and potential flooding over the western parts of the Western Cape on Sunday.
- A level 6 warning for high winds of between 80 and 90km/h over the western and south-western parts of the Western Cape on Sunday.
- A level 4 warning for winds of between 50 and 70km/h for the Namakwa district as well as the central and eastern parts of the province.
- A level 6 warning for waves between 6 and 8 metres along the coastline between Alexander Bay and Cape Agulhas from Sunday, spreading to Plettenberg Bay by the afternoon.
- A level 4 warning for disruptive snowfall over the mountains of the Western Cape as well as the southern high ground of the Namakwa District on Sunday.
Bredell said the PDMC is on standby and the various municipal district disaster centres are ready to be activated if needed.
“Emergency, rescue and social services are prepared to respond to any eventualities,” the department said in a statement.
Ready to assist
Meanwhile, provincial departments are represented at the PDMC and will be ready to provide support if needed.
“The Department of Water and Sanitation said catchments and dam levels are being monitored closely and regular updates will be made to the PDMC as the weather systems develop.”
According to Bredell, strong winds, combined with rain-saturated soil increase the risks of trees and tall structures being toppled.
In addition, the provincial department said various government services may be affected by the inclement weather and residents are asked to stay informed by monitoring the latest weather reports through trusted local news platforms and the local municipality’s social media pages.
“Services are also being activated to support the vulnerable and those impacted by the inclement weather,” the MEC added.
Other provinces
According to the SAWS, very wet, cold and windy conditions associated with an intense cold front and steepening upper-air trough are expected to start affecting the Eastern Cape, the Northern Cape, the North West and Free State, spreading along the Lesotho border on Monday.
“The public and small stock farmers are advised that very cold conditions and snowfalls are expected,” the statement read.
The SAWS also issued a warning about high fire danger conditions that are expected over theFree State, eastern parts of the Northern Cape, western parts of North West, Eastern Cape, south-western parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.
Call for caution
In the meantime, residents have been urged to stay warm and safe.
“With the end of the school holidays, many people may be travelling home. We ask residents to please be extremely cautious on the roads.
“Due to the combination of high winds, heavy rain, and snowfalls over high mountains expected, we urge residents to please reconsider travel and outdoor activities next week and avoid unnecessary travel,” the MEC cautioned. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 07/07/2024 - 11:44
98 views
Four SA Holiday Musts For Wanderlust Millennials
Millennials love adventure and exploration and have been dubbed the ‘Wanderlust Generation’. Based on recent research, travel has emerged as one of the top aspirations of this generation, revealing they travel more than any other age group. Rather than traditional investments such as buying a home, millennials value holidays more, which also helps to achieve …
Thinking Of Moving Your Family To The Cape?
FNB’s December 2023 Property Barometer shows that “sales attributed to relocation within SA (semi-gration)” were an estimated 11% of the volume of sales (down from a peak of 14% in 3Q22). Lightstone’s 2023 Migration figures show 6,406 new households bought in the Western Cape compared to 1,034 in KwaZulu-Natal and 1,971 in Gauteng. Lighstone noted …
NSRI: Plett and Mossel Bay Land Based Rescues
John Bosman, NSRI Plettenberg Bay coxswain, said: At 10h31, Thursday, 25 April, NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty crew were activated following reports from the NSRI EOC (Emergency Operations Centre) of a lady injured on the beach, on the Lookout Beach side of the Keurbooms River Mouth. Our NSRI rescue vehicle (with NSRI medics), Bitou lifeguards and …
Championing Africa’s Conservation Heroes
In an inspiring move to honour and support the unsung heroes of wildlife and marine conservation across Africa, African Secret Cream Liqueur created “The Secret Hero of Africa” initiative. This campaign is dedicated to celebrating the courageous efforts of individuals and groups working tirelessly to ensure the preservation of Africa’s rich wildlife and marine life …
Plettenberg Bay: Hobie Sailors Assisted
Ross Badenhorst, NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty coxswain, said: At 14h32, Friday, 8 March, NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty crew were activated following reports of a solo sailor on a Hobie-Cat capsized in the Bay off-shore of Keurbooms River Mouth. A second Hobie-Cat, also with a solo sailor, was circling the capsized Hobie appearing to be attempting …
Mass Drowning Averted
Ross Badenhorst, NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty coxswain, said: At 14h23, Tuesday, 19 December, NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty crew were activated following reports of a mass drowning in progress at Natures Valley, at a beach adjacent to the lifeguard protected beach. Bitou lifeguards were alerted and they responded to that beach where they entered the water, …