The Western Cape (WC) Government has confirmed that its disaster management and response teams have been placed on high alert as an intense cut-off low-pressure system is expected to impact parts of the province.
These conditions are expected, particularly in the Garden Route, with heavy rain also expected in the Overberg and surrounding inland areas.
Earlier this week, the South African Weather Service warned of heavy rainfall, strong winds, rough seas, and disruptive snowfall over high-lying areas, which are expected from Tuesday evening into Wednesday, with the potential for significant flooding, damage to infrastructure and disruptions to essential services.
The Provincial Disaster Management Centre is reportedly coordinating response efforts with district and local municipalities, national departments, and emergency services. Joint Operations Centres have been activated across high-risk areas, and water rescue resources are being pre-positioned.
“While many dams in the affected catchment areas currently show low to moderate levels, authorities caution that intense rainfall over short periods could result in rapid inflows, dam spillages and downstream flooding.”
As a precautionary measure, the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has also advised that school closures have been put in place for Wednesday and Thursday in selected circuits in the Eden and Central Karoo Education District.
This includes circuits in George, Knysna, Oudtshoorn and surrounding areas. Learner transport routes in affected circuits have also been suspended.
READ MORE: WCED closes schools in Eden and Central Karoo ahead of severe weather
Residents are urged to:
- Avoid crossing flooded roads, rivers and low-lying bridges
- Stay away from coastal areas during periods of high seas and strong winds
- Monitor official communication channels for updates
- Assist vulnerable community members where possible
Emergency and relief services, including health, humanitarian organisations, law enforcement and sea rescue teams, remain on standby.
