Cape Town’s Urban Mobility Directorate, along with Disaster Risk Management and other City departments, was working round the clock, responding to the impact of heavy rainfall that swept across the metro over the weekend.
Approximately 480 flooding-related complaints were received since Friday. The City said it is still too early to provide final verified figures on the total number of incidents or full extent of damage as assessments were still underway.
Reported flooding was concentrated in both formal and informal areas, including Parkwood, Gugulethu, Khayelitsha, Delft, Mitchells Plain, Nyanga, Philippi, Elsies River, Kraaifontein, Southfield and parts of Dunoon.
Flooding across multiple suburbs
City officials confirmed widespread localised flooding due to sustained downpours, with teams deployed across all eight districts.
Mayco member for Urban Mobility, Rob Quintas, said crews were active on the ground in areas such as Parkwood and Dunoon.
“Water has largely drained as expected in most areas, except where illegal structures block access to stormwater and sewer infrastructure,” he said. “This limits our ability to clear systems effectively.”
Waste and blockages in stormwater systems
Quintas said teams discovered inappropriate waste materials in drainage systems, including household items such as mattresses and wheelie bins, which contributed to blockages.
He added that stormwater infrastructure is designed to manage rainfall over time and not to remove water instantly during heavy downpours.
“Localised flooding is expected during intense rainfall, especially in low-lying areas and near water bodies,” he said.
The City has activated a multi-departmental emergency response, with teams deployed across affected areas.
Urban Mobility crews were clearing blocked stormwater drains and flooded roads, while Road Infrastructure Management was providing sand and milling for mitigation. Informal Settlement Management was assisting affected residents with emergency materials such as plastic sheeting.
The Disaster Operations Centre prioritised high-risk and vulnerable areas.
Winter readiness measures strengthened
The City says it is also implementing proactive measures ahead of the 2026 winter season, including expanded stormwater maintenance, targeted infrastructure upgrades in flood-prone zones, and improved early warning systems in partnership with the South African Weather Service.
Residents were urged to assist by disposing of waste responsibly to help keep drainage systems clear.
The City has reminded residents to report blocked stormwater systems only if water remained after rainfall had stopped. Illegal dumping can also be reported via the same channels.
For emergencies, residents are advised to contact the Public Emergency Communication Centre immediately.
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