Residents across Cape Town are being urged to prepare for severe winter weather as a powerful cold front is set to hit the Western Cape on Sunday, bringing heavy rain, damaging winds and rough seas that could trigger localised flooding and other disruptions.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued multiple weather warnings, with the City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management Centre placing emergency services on standby ahead of the storm’s arrival.

A Yellow Level 4 warning for disruptive rain has been issued for Sunday 28 June as a cold front is expected to make landfall in the Western Cape, bringing widespread showers and rainfall of 15–25mm, with 30–60mm expected in the Cape Winelands and City of Cape Town.

A Yellow Level 2 warning for damaging winds has also been issued for the Western Cape and southern parts of Namakwa, which could affect high-sided vehicles on exposed routes.

In addition, a Yellow Level 2 warning for damaging waves is in place between Cape Columbine and Cape Agulhas from Sunday to Monday, with difficult navigation conditions expected at sea.

The public is asked to check for any mitigation measures that they can implement before the frontal system makes landfall. This includes:

• Clearing gutters and any other blockages on their property

• Checking roofs for any leaks or loose sheets

• Securing any loose items and materials like garden furniture etc. that could be vulnerable to wind gusts

• Digging trenches to lead water away from their homes if in informal settlements

• Raising the floor of their dwelling to above ground level to minimise the risk of flooding

Residents are requested to report any storm related damages to the city’s corporate call centre on 0860 103 089 or report the issue via the City website or App.

For life or property-related emergencies, call the Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700.

ALSO READ: Devastating Cape storms cause rare surge in dam levels