The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a series of weather warnings as an intense cut-off low-pressure system begins moving across parts of the country, with the Western Cape expected to bear the brunt of the impact, Cape {town} Etc reports.
According to SAWS, the slow-moving system is expected to make landfall over the western parts of South Africa before tracking eastward between Tuesday, 5 May, and Thursday, 7 May, bringing a sustained spell of cold, wet and windy conditions.
While the system will affect multiple provinces, SAWS says the eastern parts of the Western Cape, including the Garden Route, Overberg, Central Karoo and Little Karoo, are likely to experience the most severe conditions.
Widespread rainfall is expected, with some areas forecast to receive more than 200mm over 24 hours, raising the risk of flooding. Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are also expected over the western and eastern regions of the Western Cape
‘Disruptive rainfall, leading to widespread flooding of roads and settlements, mudslides, major traffic disruptions and damage to roads and bridges, is possible,’ SAWS warned.
Damaging winds, rough seas and travel disruptions
In addition to heavy rain, strong coastal and interior winds as well as very rough sea conditions are expected, particularly along the southern coastline and the Central Karoo of the Western Cape.
These conditions may result in ‘power interruptions, damage to temporary structures, as well as transport routes being affected by falling’, warned SAWS.
At sea, wave heights are expected to reach between 5m and 7m, with the possibility of storm surges occurring, posing a threat to coastal infrastructure and making navigation at sea dangerous.
Snowfall and severe cold expected inland
Colder air associated with the system could bring snowfall over the north-eastern high ground of the Western Cape, particularly in the Central Karoo.
Temperatures are expected to drop significantly, with very cold, wet and windy conditions forecast across large parts of the province.
These conditions may also impact agriculture, with potential losses to livestock and crops. It may also lead to the closure of mountain passes.
A slow-moving system with prolonged impact
SAWS has cautioned that cut-off low systems are typically slow-moving or stationary, meaning severe weather conditions can persist over affected areas for extended periods.
‘This change in weather is associated with a cut-off low-pressure system… A cut-off low is a slow-moving or stationary weather system that can cause prolonged severe weather in one area,’ the weather agency said.
Public urged to take precautions
Residents across the Western Cape are being urged to remain alert and take precautionary measures, particularly in flood-prone areas.
SAWS has advised the public to:
- Avoid crossing flooded roads and swollen streams
- Exercise caution when travelling in poor visibility or storm conditions
- Secure loose outdoor items due to strong winds
- Follow official SAWS updates and avoid spreading unverified information
Meanwhile, the City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management Centre (DRMC) is urging the public to act timeously to minimise risk of any potential impacts on their properties.
‘Some general mitigation measures include clearing gutters, waterproof and raising structures to lower the increase of water, and to make changes around your home to divert water away.’ said DRMC spokesperson Charlotte Powell.
‘Please also report any issues immediately, like block drainage, potholes and instances of illegal dumping, as these make flooding conditions worse.’
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join!
Also read:
CT firefighters face rising demand as International Firefighters Day approaches
Picture: Ray Bilcliff / Pexels
