The Western Cape on Alert for Disruptive Rainfall and Potential Flooding

Residents and tourists in the Western Cape, particularly within the Overstrand, Overberg, southern Cape Winelands, and Garden Route coastal areas, are being urged to exercise caution as the region prepares for a high-impact weather event this coming weekend. Theewaterskloof Municipality and the South African Weather Service (SAWS) have issued a stern advisory, expecting widespread showers and thunderstorms due to a cut-off low pressure system.

Starting the morning of Saturday, December 30 and extending into Sunday, December 31, 2023, the weather disturbance is slated to unleash significant rainfalls that might cause widespread disruption and damage. With a level 3 weather warning in place, locals and visitors alike are being warned of the imminent risk of heavy downpours that could lead to flooding of both formal and informal settlements, roads, as well as increased risks of mudslides and rockfalls in hilly and mountainous terrain.

Authorities are highlighting the risk of motor vehicle accidents, particularly during peak traffic hours, which may be exacerbated by flooded thoroughfares. The potential for treacherous driving conditions is severe enough that enforcement agencies are expected to be active across major routes, managing traffic and aiding in the regulation of waterlogged or inaccessible roads.

Theewaterskloof Municipality is making concerted efforts to spread awareness about the impending weather conditions. They have issued specific instructions for residents to relocate valuables to higher ground, switch off electrical mains, and display heightened caution when traveling at night, when flood dangers are significantly more difficult to detect.

In an effort to address and mitigate the impact of this weather system, the municipality has assured the public that its disaster response teams are on high alert. Teams comprising rapid delivery squads, engineering crews, and technical specialists are prepared to address any incidents without delay. Additionally, citizens are encouraged to remain abreast of updates by tuning in to radio and television broadcasts and adhering to any instructions or directives from government and emergency management personnel.

For those visiting or looking to explore the enchanting Cape Town region, and concerned about mobility amidst the weather warning, there are a number of options for purchasing vehicles under R100,000 – an indication that life in the Western Cape is expected to carry on with appropriate caution despite climatic adversities.

Faced with the possibility of emergency situations arising, members of the public are being provided with the emergency contact number for the Theewaterskloof Municipality – 080 021 4730 – ensuring that help is just a call away in the face of any distress caused by the forecasted extreme weather.