Severe weather conditions continue to affect many parts of South Africa, with authorities keeping weather warnings in place for both the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape. Heavy rain, flooding, and strong winds continue to threaten more communities.
At least four people have lost their lives since the extreme weather began on Sunday. In the North-West province, rescue teams are still dealing with the aftermath after a 12-year-old girl was swept away by floodwaters. In the Northern Cape, two people died, while in Knysna a woman was killed on Wednesday when a tree collapsed onto her parked vehicle during strong winds and heavy rain.
The South African Weather Service has maintained an Orange Level 6 warning for the Garden Route region, indicating a high risk of flooding, damage to infrastructure, and danger to life. Emergency services remain on high alert as persistent downpours continue across several areas.
The severe weather has also disrupted education in affected communities. Schools in the Taung area remain closed due to unsafe conditions caused by flooding and damaged roads. In the Western Cape, approximately 125 schools have been shut down as authorities attempt to protect learners and staff while assessing damage to school infrastructure and transport routes.
Officials have warned residents to avoid crossing flooded roads and rivers, remain indoors where possible, and follow emergency instructions issued by local disaster management teams. Municipal workers and rescue personnel are continuing efforts to clear debris, monitor rising water levels, and assist affected residents.
Forecasters say additional heavy rainfall is expected over the coming days, raising concerns that flooding could worsen in vulnerable low-lying areas. Communities across the affected provinces have been urged to remain vigilant as authorities monitor weather patterns and prepare for possible evacuations should conditions deteriorate further.
