South Africa is experiencing a severe weather outbreak, with heavy rainfall, strong winds and flooding affecting large parts of the country. At least two deaths have been reported in the Northern Cape, while significant damage has occurred in the Eastern Cape, Gauteng and Mpumalanga.
South Africa is grappling with severe weather conditions as heavy rain, strong winds and flooding continue to affect multiple provinces. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued several active warnings, while the National Disaster Management Centre and humanitarian organisations are on high alert.
Deaths and Damage in Northern Cape
The Northern Cape has been particularly hard hit. The National Disaster Management Centre head, Dr Elias Sithole, confirmed that two people have died as a result of the floods. Emergency teams are working closely with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to provide support in the affected areas.
Gauteng: Tragedy in Germiston
In Germiston, a young adult was killed and three others injured when a large tree fell onto several shacks in the Makause informal settlement during heavy rainfall in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Rescue teams worked through the debris to free trapped residents.
Mpumalanga: Over 50 Houses Damaged
In Malalane, more than 50 houses were damaged by a storm accompanied by strong winds in Buffelspruit and Schoemansdal. Businesses and electricity infrastructure were also affected. The Nkomazi Municipality is currently assessing the full extent of the damage.
Eastern Cape: Flooding in Nelson Mandela Bay
In the Eastern Cape, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has urged motorists to exercise extreme caution as widespread flooding has affected multiple roads. Several routes are either impassable or hazardous, including the M4, Addo Road, N2 near John Tallant Interchange, and many others.
Schools have been closed in some areas due to the flood risks.
What Residents Should Do
The South African Weather Service and disaster management teams are urging the public to avoid flooded roads, secure loose objects, and stay informed through official channels. Motorists are warned that even shallow, fast-moving water can sweep away a vehicle.
Humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers and emergency services remain on high alert to assist affected communities.
