Salga said the rising frequency and intensity of storms, floods and other climate‑driven events had placed immense pressure on local resources, with many municipalities struggling to respond effectively.
The association called on local governments to ensure that joint operating committees are activated promptly and that communities receive timely warnings issued by the South African Weather Service.
Mluleki Nkosi, Chairperson of Salga’s Emergency Services and Disaster Management Working Group, said stronger, more modern systems were urgently required to help municipalities withstand climate shocks.
“To strengthen municipalities against climate change‑related disasters, SA must modernise disaster policies in line with the Climate Change Act,” Nkosi said. “We as a country also need to secure sustainable funding for municipalities so they can be prepared and resilient.”
Salga emphasised that without improved coordination, updated legislation and guaranteed funding, local governments will continue to face mounting risks, particularly as extreme weather events become more frequent.
–SABC/ChannelAfrica–
