South Africa’s Weather Service has downgraded severe weather alerts for the Eastern Cape and Western Cape from Orange Level 9 to Level 8, but officials say the threat remains serious as heavy downpours continue to raise the risk of flooding, damage to infrastructure, and danger to public safety.
In the Eastern Cape, already heavy rainfall has begun causing damage to homes and other infrastructure in some areas. Authorities are warning residents to stay alert, follow official instructions, and monitor weather updates closely as conditions remain unstable. The rainfall is expected to continue affecting communities, with flooding posing the main concern in low-lying and vulnerable areas.
The Western Cape is also bracing for severe weather across large parts of the province this week. As part of the response, the provincial Education Department has ordered the closure of all schools in the Eden and Karoo districts. The move is intended to protect learners, teachers, and school staff as the weather system intensifies.
Western Cape Disaster Management Centre acting head Nabeel Rylands said local response structures have been activated to help authorities respond quickly to any emergencies. He said all municipalities have been placed on alert and that national, municipal, and provincial stakeholders are working together through disaster management clusters. Rylands added that early warnings have been shared across all sectors, including those considered most vulnerable.
Officials say the combination of intense rainfall, flooding risk, and possible damage to roads, homes, and public services means residents should take precautions and avoid unnecessary travel where possible. Communities in affected areas are being urged to remain vigilant and to heed updates from emergency services and local authorities.
The weather warning comes as South Africans in other parts of the country are also being advised to prepare for cold conditions, with a separate cold front expected in Gauteng over the weekend.
With severe weather still expected to affect both coastal provinces, disaster management teams say the focus is on readiness, rapid response, and public safety. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as the storm system moves through the region.
