The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that a significant cold front is expected to bring adverse weather conditions over the weekend into Monday (27-29 July 2024).
A Level 4 alert has been issued for disruptive rain and possible snowfalls in the Western Cape mountains. Very cold conditions, with day-time temperatures expected to fall below 10°C in some areas are anticipated. SAWS has warned that the windy conditions combined with the very cold and wet weather may pose risks to vulnerable livestock and pets.
Theewaterskloof Municipality confirmed that a Level 5 warning for disruptive rain on Saturday (27 July) in the TWK region has been issued. A Level 4 warning for disruptive rain on Saturday has been issued to the Overstrand and Cape Agulhas areas. According to SAWS accumulated rainfall amounts of 20-40 mm can be expected during this period.
“Following a week of weaker cold fronts that already saturated the soil, the additional rainfall may exacerbate the impacts in flagged municipalities, which could lead to further disruptions,” SAWS warned.
These possible disruptions, said SAWS, could include flooding of roads, low bridges, informal settlements and damage to property and infrastructure. In addition to this, mudslides and rockfalls in vulnerable areas were also possible.
A Level 6 warning for disruptive waves between Cape Columbine and Cape Agulhas from the period 27-29 July was also issued by SAWS.
“South-westerly swells with wave heights of 4-5 m reaching 6-8 m in places between Cape Columbine and Cape Agulhas can be expected from Saturday. On Saturday, strong gale-force north-westerly winds (60-80km/h) are expected between Lambert’s Bay and Plettenberg Bay. The combination of gale force winds and high waves could lead to very rough and choppy sea conditions. Small vessels are advised to seek shelter in harbours, bays or inlets.”
Overstrand Municipal Manager Dean O’Neill reported that the municipality’s Disaster Management was on full alert.
To report issues with municipal services such as stormwater to the Overstrand Municipality’s 24-hour client contact centre on 028 313 8111. For any other emergency or distress call related to a fire or flood emergency, phone the 24-hour Overstrand Emergency Services Control Room on 028 312 2400.
Residents of the Theewaterskloof municipal district can 028 214 3300 or in case of an emergency, 080 021 4730.
