Western Cape braces for severe storm: Level 8 weather warning issued for Garden Route as heavy rain and flood risks loom

GARDEN ROUTE | KAROO NEWS - The Western Cape is on high alert as a powerful cut-off low-pressure system is expected to bring severe weather conditions to the region from Wednesday, 3 June, to Thursday, 4 June.

Level 8 weather warning raises alarm in Garden Route

Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, confirmed that the South African Weather Service has issued a Level 8 impact-based warning for the eastern parts of the Garden Route - signalling a significant risk to life and infrastructure.

A Level 4 warning has also been issued for the Central Karoo, including areas such as Laingsburg and Swellendam.

Up to 200mm of rain expected in high-risk municipalities

According to SAWS, the Garden Route - particularly the municipalities of Bitou, Knysna and George - could receive up to 200mm of rainfall over the two-day period.

In the Central Karoo, the Beaufort West area is expected to receive between 60mm and 80mm of rain, raising concerns about localised flooding and infrastructure strain.

Flooding risks increase as ground remains saturated

Authorities warn that the expected rainfall follows recent storms in May, leaving soil and river catchments already saturated.

This significantly increases the risk of:

Flooding in low-lying and informal settlements
Rising river levels and dam spillages
Road closures and infrastructure damage
Disruptions to essential services

Rural and farming communities could face isolation if roads become impassable.

Rough seas and strong winds to batter coastal areas

Coastal regions are also expected to experience dangerous sea conditions, with wave heights reaching up to five metres.

These conditions pose a serious threat to small vessels and coastal activities, with authorities urging extreme caution.

Rough sease have been forecast. Photo: Unsplash

Disaster management teams on high alert

Provincial and municipal disaster management teams have been activated, with emergency services placed on standby.

Readiness measures include:

Continuous monitoring of weather developments
Activation of local disaster response plans
Mobilisation of humanitarian support partners
Preparedness of health and rescue services

Residents urged to prepare and stay informed

Minister Bredell has called on residents, businesses and farmers to take proactive steps ahead of the storm.

Precautionary measures include:

Avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges and rivers
Stay indoors where safe
Keep emergency numbers accessible
Follow official instructions from authorities

Farmers are advised to secure infrastructure, ensure adequate supplies, and move livestock away from flood-prone areas.

Schools and services remain open - for now

All government services, including schools, will continue operating as normal. However, authorities note that this could change depending on evolving conditions.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated via official Western Cape Government platforms, municipal channels and SAWS alerts as the situation develops.