Major storm heading for Cape Town

A major winter storm is expected to make landfall in the Western Cape late this evening (Sunday) and is expected to continue throughout the day tomorrow (Monday).

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) is warning that disruptive rainfall can be expected in the City of Cape Town with between 40mm-60mm expected from early tomorrow morning.

The Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell says the wet weather is predicted for the Western parts of the province spreading all the way up the west coast to Alexander Bay.

“The heavy rain, especially in the metro area is expected to lead to localised flooding of susceptible formal and informal settlements, roads and low-lying areas. Essential services such as water and electricity may be affected and disruption of traffic flow is very likely especially during peak traffic on Monday morning.”

The SAWS is warning that the wet weather comes along with an extreme cold front, strong winds and rough seas.

Bredell says the Western Cape Disaster Management Centre (WCDMC) as well as all regional disaster centres and the City of Cape Town disaster services are on standby.

Members of the public are urged - in the event of any emergency - to contact the emergency services immediately. The easiest number to remember is 112. This is a tollfree number and can be dialled from any cell phone.

Additional regional numbers for reporting emergencies in the Western Cape:

• City of Cape Town - 107 or 021 480 7700 and 080 911 4357
• Overberg - 028 425 1690
• West Coast - 022 433 8700
• Garden Route - 044 805 5071
• Central Karoo – 023 449 8000
• Cape Winelands – 021 886 9244 / 021 887 4446

Bad weather related tip sheet

How can I prepare for bad weather events?

• Identify the risks in your local area.
• Report blocked drains and service disruptions promptly
• Prepare a home emergency plan and identify risks around your home.
• Make sure cell phones are charged before going to bed.
• Remove leaves and debris (from downpipes or gutters or street gullies) or any other items that can increase the risk of flooding in your area.
• Have an evacuation plan. Everyone in your family should know where to go to find shelter.
• Prepare an emergency toolkit. This may include items such as candles and matches, drinking water, a multi-tool, whistle and a list of emergency contact numbers.

What should I do during a flooding?

• Monitor current flood warnings. Listen to the radio for emergency warnings, evacuation advice and weather updates.
• Avoid entering floodwater unless it is necessary, and never underestimate the strength of floodwater, even if you are inside a vehicle.
• Follow all instructions from emergency authorities.
• Turn off all electricity and water and take your cell phone with you.
• Assist elderly and disabled neighbours where possible.
• Contact the authorities as soon as possible.

Further winter weather tips:

• (When moving around outdoors) dress in warm brightly coloured wet weather clothing.
• If caught unawares by strong wind, barricade windows with wooded panels or strips (or furniture if needs be).
• If ordered to evacuate do so immediately and in an orderly fashion.
• Listen to the radio or TV for warnings and obey the instructions from disaster management officers.