This past weekend the SA Weather Service issued a notification of “frigid, wet and windy conditions” for the Cape as an intense cold front arrives, with the warning level rising to 8 in particular for the Western Cape.
A intense cold front made landfall over the Western Cape on Sunday but intensified in the early hours of Monday morning, and the damage has been extensive as wind speeds gusting between 50 and 90 km/h have hit various parts of the province, while widespread rainfall has caused extensive flooding.
Rainfall accumulations between 100 and 200 mm were reported to be possible in some areas, which are resulting in significant impacts upon infrastructure, transport routes and vulnerable communities.
PICTURES OF THE WILD CAPE STORM
The very cold and windy conditions across the western interior of South Africa are expected to persist until at least Tuesday.
Moreover, there is a high risk of the development of very rough and choppy sea conditions, accompanied by destructive waves, which may pose a danger to navigation at sea and coastal activities.
The following weather-related impacts are anticipated as the cold front progresses over the
country between Sunday and Tuesday:
Orange level 8 warning for disruptive rainfall leading to flooding of roads, bridges and formal and informal settlements, mudslides and danger to life due to fast-flowing rivers is expected over the mountainous regions of the Drakenstein, Stellenbosch, the western parts of the Theewaterskloof, Breede Valley and Witzenberg local municipalities of the Western Cape from Sunday to Tuesday.
The public is strongly advised to:
- Monitor official weather updates and warnings issued by the South African Weather Service.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain and flooding.
- Never attempt to cross flooded roads, bridges, or swollen rivers.
- Secure loose outdoor objects that may be displaced by strong winds.
- Exercise extreme caution along coastal areas and avoid fishing or recreational activities at sea
during the warning period. - Provide adequate shelter, warmth, and protection for livestock and pets.
- Prepare emergency kits, including flashlights, batteries, warm clothing, blankets, and essential
supplies. - Community leaders and disaster management authorities
For regular updates, keep an eye on the SA Weather Service website or follow SAWS’ official media
channels.
