President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a national state of disaster following severe weather events that have claimed at least 10 lives and caused widespread infrastructure damage across several provinces.

The devastating weather system, characterised by heavy rainfall, flooding, thunderstorms, damaging winds and snowfall, has displaced communities and disrupted essential services nationwide.

Speaking on the government’s response, Ramaphosa said the National Disaster Management Centre had declared the national emergency to address the loss of life, infrastructure damage and community displacement caused by the extreme weather conditions.

“As winter sets in, we are vulnerable to events which we may be able to forecast but whose actual intensity in specific locations we may not be able to predict,” the president said.

The declaration enables coordinated disaster response efforts between national, provincial and municipal authorities working alongside affected communities.

Ramaphosa acknowledged the efforts of rescue and recovery crews operating in challenging conditions, noting that ongoing severe weather has impacted air operations and other emergency response activities.

The president praised the response from individuals, civil society organisations and the business sector in providing relief to those affected by the natural disasters.

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Government has committed to using scientific forecasting to anticipate weather events and improve emergency response capabilities. The National Disaster Management Centre and Cabinet will receive regular updates on critical weather forecasts, with response strategies adjusted according to changing conditions.

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The severe weather system has highlighted South Africa’s vulnerability to extreme weather events during the winter season, with authorities working to minimise further loss of life and property damage.

Emergency services continue to monitor weather conditions and coordinate rescue operations across affected areas as communities begin recovery efforts.

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