Western Cape Government continues to monitor severe weather conditions in the Central Karoo and Garden Route

The Western Cape Government continues to closely monitor the impact of the severe weather system affecting parts of the province, with disaster management teams, emergency services and municipalities remaining fully activated and on high alert.

This follows an update provided today to the Western Cape Disaster Management Centre.

Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, said authorities remain focused on protecting communities and responding to incidents as they arise.

The Disaster Management Centre was informed that the N1 is currently closed at Leeu Gamka due to flooding, with no safe alternative route available at this stage.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) reported rainfall totals of between 50 mm and 100 mm across the Central Karoo, while some areas in the eastern Garden Route have received up to 200 mm of rain since yesterday. Rainfall is expected to continue throughout the day, with conditions forecast to begin clearing later this afternoon.

The Department of Water and Sanitation reported that dams in both the Central Karoo and Garden Route districts are currently spilling, while rivers remain full or in flood. The Keurbooms River, presently flowing at 133 cubic meters per second, is being closely monitored by authorities.

Eskom reported persistent power outages in parts of the Garden Route, including Harkerville and Covie in the Bitou municipal area, as well as Sedgefield and Karatara in Knysna. Eskom and municipal teams continue to work on restoring electricity supply to affected communities.

Road infrastructure has also been impacted in several areas. Molteno Pass, between Beaufort West and Loxton, remains closed, while sections of the R328 towards the Cango Caves and Welbedacht Road in Oudtshoorn have been closed due to weather-related damage.

Rockfalls have been reported on the R324 at Tradouw Pass and on sections of the N12. Localised flooding has also been recorded in Seweweekspoort, where response teams continue to monitor conditions closely.

Disaster management teams, emergency services, municipalities and humanitarian partners remain fully mobilised. Humanitarian assistance, including food, blankets and other essential supplies, is being coordinated where required. Emergency shelter facilities remain available should communities require temporary accommodation.

Residents are urged to avoid flooded roads and low-water crossings, limit non-essential travel in affected areas, stay clear of rivers and bridges, and follow updates issued through official government and municipal communication channels.

"The situation remains stable, but conditions can change rapidly as the weather system continues to move through the affected areas. We urge residents to remain vigilant, heed all warnings, and avoid taking unnecessary risks," Minister Bredell said.

Media enquiries:
Wouter Kriel
Spokesperson for Minister Anton Bredell
Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning
Cell: 079 694 3085

#GovZAUpdates