The N1 national road between the Huguenot Tunnel and Worcester has reopened following a four-day closure caused by devastating floods that swept through the Western Cape this week, as authorities continue mopping up operations across the province.

The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) announced on Friday that the critical route was passable again after engineering and maintenance teams worked around the clock to clear debris and assess damage.

The highway had been closed in both directions since Monday 11 May after the Hex River and Breede River overtopped the N1, whilst multiple mudslides and rockfalls blocked sections between the Huguenot Tunnel and Rawsonville.

Western Cape minister for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Anton Bredell said on Friday that major national routes, including the N1 and N2, are now functioning close to normal capacity, though restoration efforts remain ongoing.

Heavy rains that began earlier this week led to severe flooding across the region, with the situation complicated by simultaneous flooding on alternative routes. The Du Toitskloof Pass (R101), which normally serves as an alternative to the Huguenot Tunnel, was also closed but has since been cleared and reopened by the Western Cape government.

The closure brought freight movement on the crucial south-north corridor to a standstill, leaving motorists stranded and forcing lengthy detours.

Randall Cable, SANRAL’s provincial head for the Western Cape, said the reopening would bring much-needed relief to motorists and freight operators.

“As cleanup operations continue, SANRAL advises motorists to please proceed with caution and be on the lookout for maintenance crews still on the various scenes where obstructions and damages have occurred,” Cable said.

He urged road users to adhere to all signage and follow instructions from traffic and law enforcement officials on the route.

Franschhoek Pass which has been undergoing intensive repairs and upgrades after the floods of September 2023, has again sustained severe damage and is closed indefinitely to all traffic.

Electricity and humanitarian response

Electricity restoration remains a key focus area, with approximately 62% of affected areas now reconnected. Eskom teams are actively working to restore supply in the Cape Winelands and Theewaterskloof areas, where high-voltage infrastructure sustained significant damage.

Humanitarian relief efforts continue across the province, with thousands of residents receiving assistance. This includes the provision of food parcels, cooked meals, water, blankets and hygiene supplies. Shelters remain operational in several districts, supporting displaced individuals and families.

The government acknowledged the challenges still faced by affected communities, particularly regarding access to clean drinking water, electricity and safe shelter. Municipalities and disaster response teams are working closely with partners, including non-governmental organisations and community organisations, to address these needs.

Weather warning for next week

Whilst conditions are expected to remain stable over the weekend, the South African Weather Service has indicated the possibility of another weather system developing early next week, with rainfall expected primarily in the Overberg and Garden Route regions. Authorities are closely monitoring developments and preparedness measures are being strengthened.

On Monday, Premier Alan Winde and Bredell will conduct an aerial assessment of affected areas, followed by a formal briefing and media engagement. This will inform further decisions regarding recovery, reconstruction and funding support.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, adhere to official advisories and make use of available support services.

SANRAL has thanked the Western Cape Department of Mobility and Department of Infrastructure for coordination efforts, as well as law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, rescue services and maintenance teams who continue to work in affected areas.

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