Disaster management teams in the Western Cape are closely monitoring severe weather conditions as a Level 8 storm makes landfall over the Garden Route and Little Karoo regions.
Forecasters have warned that between 100mm and 200mm of rain could fall on Wednesday, accompanied by gale-force winds and high sea swells. Emergency services have been placed on standby for potential flash flooding, mudslides and rapidly rising rivers, particularly in low-lying areas.
Municipal teams have spent recent days clearing stormwater drainage systems in an effort to reduce the risk of flooding. As a precaution, schools in George, Knysna and Oudtshoorn have been closed until Thursday.
Meanwhile, heavy rains have also impacted parts of the Eastern Cape, with flooding and power outages reported in the Nelson Mandela Bay metro.
Municipal officials confirmed that areas including Markman, Bluewater Bay and Amsterdamhoek experienced electricity disruptions, although supply has since been restored in some locations. Other areas remain without power as repair efforts continue.
Flooding has also been reported in parts of the metro, prompting authorities to close certain roads. Safety and Security Executive Director Shadrack Sibiya said Third Avenue has been shut as a precaution to prevent potential incidents, while other roads remain under close observation.
The South African Weather Service has urged residents to remain on high alert and avoid unnecessary travel, warning that disruptive weather conditions are expected to persist.
Eastern Cape forecaster Ayabonga Tshungwana said a Level 8 warning for destructive rainfall has been issued for parts of the region, including Nelson Mandela Bay and Koukamma. An Orange Level 6 warning is also in place for areas such as Aberdeen in the Sarah Baartman District, with strong winds and rough seas expected along the coast.
Authorities continue to monitor conditions as emergency teams remain on standby to respond to any incidents.