Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) cautions residents, businesses, and motorists about the strong winds that continue to pose a high risk across the Metro, including house roofs being ripped off, falling trees, and collapsing boundary walls.

According to the NMBM spokesperson Sithembiso Soyaya, Disaster Management teams, workers from the Parks Sub-Directorate, and Emergency Services are all on the ground assisting affected residents and rescuing animals. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported so far.

“The South African Weather Service has issued a Level 2 warning for damaging winds, valid from Monday, 11 May 2026 at 13:00 until Tuesday, 12 May at 21:59,” he said.

Soyaya added that a cold front and associated low-pressure system moving across the Eastern Cape are expected to result in gale-force north-westerly winds across the province, with gusts between 40 and 50 knots.

“These strong winds have already caused disruptions to electricity infrastructure and damage to properties in parts of Nelson Mandela Bay,” he said. “Residents are urged to secure loose objects and take all necessary precautions to protect their homes and properties.”

In light of that, the Metro advises motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads, owing to sudden strong crosswinds, reduced visibility, fallen trees, and possible debris.

“Small boats are advised to seek shelter and avoid venturing out to sea,” he said. “Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring official weather updates and remain alert throughout this period.”

Following adverse rainy and windy weather conditions experienced across Nelson Mandela Bay last week, Soyaya stated that municipal teams have been working tirelessly in all the affected areas to assist affected communities and reduce further damage caused by flooding.

“As part of ongoing mop-up operations, officials are actively extracting floodwater from affected areas to improve conditions, protect infrastructure and support residents during this challenging time,” he said.

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality understands the difficulties and disruption caused by severe weather conditions and remains committed to responding with urgency, compassion and dedicated service delivery.

“Affected residents can also report incidents to their Ward Councillors,” Soyaya concluded.

Emergency contact details:

• NMBM Electricity and Energy – 041 506 5595
• South African Weather Service website
• Nelson Mandel Bay Municipality website
• NMBM Emergency Response Number – 041 585 1555
• NMBM Safety and Security WhatsApp Number – 079 490 0480
• SAPS – 10111