CAPE TOWN – A relentless heatwave gripping parts of the Western Cape has now affected the province’s power grid.
As temperatures soar past 40°C, Eskom confirmed on Wednesday that several towns and suburbs are grappling with electricity interruptions caused by the extreme weather.
According to a media statement released today, the persistently high temperatures have placed “significant strain” on the electricity network.
The utility explained that the intense heat is causing physical damage to critical infrastructure, including transformers, underground cables, and overhead power lines.
This technical degradation is being compounded by a massive spike in demand as residents and businesses push cooling systems to their limits.
The outages have hit various areas, with the following areas currently identified as hotspots for supply disruptions:
• Cape Winelands: Parts of the region are facing intermittent power as infrastructure struggles in the sun-baked valley.
• Khayelitsha: Large sections of the township have reported faults.
• Riebeek West & Killarney Gardens: Both residential and industrial sectors in these areas are dealing with network failures.
Eskom technicians are reportedly working “tirelessly” in hazardous conditions to restore power. While the utility noted that most customers have already had their supply reinstated, teams remain on-site to address remaining faults.
Local authorities have urged residents to stay indoors and hydrated as the South African Weather Service warns that the heatwave conditions—defined by temperatures exceeding the monthly average by 5°C for three or more consecutive days—are likely to persist through the week.
How to report faults
Residents still without power are encouraged to log faults via the MyEskom Customer App, the Alfred Chatbot, or via WhatsApp at 08600 37566.
