Authorities across the Western Cape have issued urgent warnings to motorists as numerous roads remain closed or affected due to ongoing flooding, mudslides, fallen trees, and damaged infrastructure, Cape {town} Etc reports.
While many roads are still accessible, several major and minor routes across the Overberg, West Coast, Garden Route, Cape Winelands, and Central Karoo districts have either been fully shut or carry warnings due to unsafe conditions.
In the Overberg District, several key routes are off-limits. Villiersdorp is largely isolated, with only the MR279 to Grabouw open as a route out. Low water bridges across the Buffeljags River near Swellendam and in Slanghoek are submerged, while the TR30/2 from Villiersdorp to Worcester remains closed. Other affected areas include Caledon to Greyton (MR277), Arniston, and De Mond, which are completely cut off. Greyton and Genadendal are also isolated due to closures on surrounding gravel roads.
The West Coast has also seen extensive damage. Versveld Pass (DR2161), Uitkyk Pass, and multiple roads around the Berg and Olifants Rivers are currently closed. Infrastructure in the Piketberg, Clanwilliam, and Hermon areas has suffered significantly, with bridges washed away and water levels still rising in some low-lying areas.
In the Cape Winelands, roads like the Franschhoek Pass (MR191) are impassable due to fallen trees, while several gravel roads including Doringrivier and Lemoenpoort are covered in water. Parts of the R62 between Montagu and Ashton are closed, though alternative access is available via DR01373. The McGregor approach bridge has been washed away, and KOO road (MR295) remains closed.
Cape Town itself has not been spared. Chapman’s Peak Drive and Clarence Drive (R44) are closed, and sections of Baden Powell Drive have lane restrictions. Sir Lowry’s Pass, however, remains open at this stage.
The Garden Route is also facing serious challenges. Meiringspoort (TR33/4), Prince Alfred’s Pass (TR59), and Swartberg Pass (MR369) are all affected, alongside river overtopping in Karatara, Gouna, and Kammanasie.
In the Central Karoo, damage is increasing. The R353 between Leeu Gamka and Prince Albert has water flowing over the road, while the MR370 from Klaarstroom to Willowmore is closed. Roads in Moordernaarskaroo are wet and severely damaged.
Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and not attempt to cross flooded roads.
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Picture: ER Lombard / Gallo Images
