The N2 near Witsand in the southern Cape has been closed to prevent cars being washed away after heavy rains resumed yesterday morning.

The N2 near Witsand in the southern Cape has been closed to prevent cars being washed away after heavy rains resumed yesterday morning.

"We are swimming," said Claude Schroeder, acting manager for the Hesseque Municipality.

Heavy rains have soaked the Eden, Witsand, Slangriver and Heidelberg areas, forcing at least one family to evacuate their home, and leaving another 15 worrying about damage to their household goods after rain began pouring through their roofs.

All the roads in Riversdale were flooded and municipal workers were rushing to clear storm drains to prevent a disaster.

Some families were waiting out of the rain in the community hall and ward councillors were assisting where they could.

Schroeder said basic services were still running and the priority was to keep people safe. - Sapa