Western Cape Cabinet welcomes disaster classification for severe weather impact

On 20 May 2026, Premier Alan Winde chaired a meeting of the Western Cape Government Cabinet, where the devastating impact of the recent severe weather events across the province was the primary focus of discussions.

Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, attended the meeting and engaged with Cabinet on the ongoing disaster response and recovery efforts.

Cabinet welcomed the classification of a provincial disaster following the severe weather that affected large parts of the Western Cape between 10 and 14 May 2026. The classification forms part of the process led by the National Disaster Management Centre toward the formal declaration of a disaster, which is essential to unlock additional funding to support the province’s emergency response and recovery plans.

Premier Winde stressed the need for urgency in ensuring that funding is made available as quickly as possible to support affected communities, restore damaged infrastructure, and strengthen resilience against future disasters.

“These kinds of disasters are becoming more frequent and more destructive. We need a new approach from national government that prioritises proactive budgeting and futureproofing of public infrastructure. The Western Cape remains committed to investing in resilience, preparedness and protecting our residents, but we need national support to move faster and respond more effectively,” said Premier Winde.

Minister Hlabisa commended the Western Cape Government for its leadership and proactive response to the severe weather conditions and assured Cabinet that his department would continue to support the province wherever possible. Cabinet noted that the provincial response has now shifted toward ongoing humanitarian relief, the repair of critical infrastructure, and the restoration of essential services.

Eskom representatives informed Cabinet that electricity supply has already been restored to 72% of the areas affected by the severe weather. Restoration teams continue to work around the clock to reconnect remaining communities as quickly and safely as possible.

Cabinet also expressed its gratitude to disaster management teams, municipalities, emergency personnel, humanitarian organisations, volunteers, businesses and residents who have played a role in supporting affected communities during this difficult period. “The response from communities across the Western Cape has once again demonstrated the strength, compassion and resilience of our province. We thank every individual and organisation who stepped up to help those in need,” Premier Winde said.