The SA Weather Service has warned of “frigid, wet and windy conditions for Western and Northern Cape” as an intense cold front arrives.
A strong cold front is expected to make landfall over the Western Cape on Sunday afternoon before progressing eastwards along the southern parts of the country.
This weather system is expected to result in widespread disruptive rainfall, strong to gale-force
winds, very rough seas, and significantly colder temperatures over the western interior and coastal
regions.
Level 8 weather warning for the Western Cape now
Rainfall accumulations between 100 and 200 mm are possible in some areas, which may result in
significant impacts upon infrastructure, transport routes and vulnerable communities.
In addition, very cold and windy conditions are expected across the western interior of South Africa, with wind speeds ranging between 50 and 70 km/h. Strong to gale-force winds are also expected along the west and south coast from Sunday afternoon, persisting until at least Tuesday night.
Moreover, there is a high risk of the development of very rough and choppy sea conditions, accompanied by destructive waves, which may pose a danger to navigation at sea and coastal activities.
The following weather-related impacts are anticipated as the cold front progresses over the
country between Sunday and Tuesday:
Orange level 8 warning for disruptive rainfall leading to flooding of roads, bridges and formal and informal settlements, mudslides and danger to life due to fast-flowing rivers is expected over the mountainous regions of the Drakenstein, Stellenbosch, the western parts of the Theewaterskloof, Breede Valley and Witzenberg local municipalities of the Western Cape from Sunday to Tuesday.
The public is strongly advised to:
- Monitor official weather updates and warnings issued by the South African Weather Service.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain and flooding.
- Never attempt to cross flooded roads, bridges, or swollen rivers.
- Secure loose outdoor objects that may be displaced by strong winds.
- Exercise extreme caution along coastal areas and avoid fishing or recreational activities at sea
during the warning period. - Provide adequate shelter, warmth, and protection for livestock and pets.
- Prepare emergency kits, including flashlights, batteries, warm clothing, blankets, and essential
supplies. - Community leaders and disaster management authorities
For regular updates, keep an eye on the SA Weather Service website or follow SAWS’ official media
channels.
