Mop-up operations are expected to begin on Wednesday following days of severe weather caused by two cold fronts that made landfall in the Western Cape over the weekend.
Thousands of residents across Cape Town and surrounding rural communities have been affected by flooding and strong winds, with informal settlements among the hardest hit areas.
More than 40,000 residents are believed to have been impacted by the severe weather, which caused widespread damage to homes, infrastructure and public services.
Schools across the province reopened on Wednesday, although the provincial education department warned that some institutions may remain closed due to structural damage or inaccessible roads.
Communities on the Cape Flats, including Valhalla Park, reported extensive destruction as strong winds tore roofs from homes and heavy rain flooded properties.
One resident said her son’s home was severely damaged during the storm.
“My son’s roof flew off and he has three small children. The entire house was soaked, including all the bedding, and now they have to stay with me even though I don’t have enough beds,” she said.
Another resident described how the storm destroyed a Wendy house and left the family without electricity.
“The roof blew off, the beds are wet and we have no power. I’ve been waiting for a house for three years after being approved for a housing project in Valhalla Park, but no assistance has come,” the resident said.
Disaster management teams and humanitarian organisations continue assessments in affected communities as authorities prepare longer-term recovery and relief interventions.