Cape Town Reels from Flood Chaos as Cold Front Batters the City

A powerful cold front that rolled into Cape Town early this morning has caused widespread flooding and travel chaos across the metro, prompting officials to urge residents and motorists to exercise extreme caution.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive rainfall, effective until Thursday morning, and a Yellow Level 4 warning for damaging coastal waves starting this evening. The stormy weather is expected to persist until Sunday, with icy temperatures, possible snowfall in higher areas, and gale-force winds forecast for parts of the province.

Reports from WCLive Traffic & Safety and Cape Town Traffic Alerts paint a grim picture for motorists:

• Paarden Eiland to M5 fly-over: Right lane flooded towards N1
• Elsies River: Francie van Zijl Drive and Connaught Road submerged
• Bergvliet: Flooding at Main Road and Ladies Mile Road
• Ottery: Water pooling at Ottery and New Strandfontein intersection
• Claremont: Flooding near Warrington Road (by Masterparts)
• Kommetjie Road: Submerged near Fish Eagle Park
• Baden Powell Drive: Deep flooding between Pavilion and Sunrise Circle; almost no visibility
• Strandfontein Road: Junction at Ottery under water, as seen in footage shared by Traffic SA

City response and safety advice

Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management Centre says all relevant services are on standby. “We urge residents to take all warnings seriously and prepare their homes where possible,” said a city spokesperson.

Read | Durban Terminals temporarily halts operations due to adverse weather conditions

The public is advised to:

• Clear gutters and stormwater drains
• Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary
• Stay away from flooded roads and low-lying areas
• Keep emergency supplies handy
• Stay tuned to official channels for updates

For emergencies, contact the City’s Disaster Operations Centre on (021) 480 7700.

SAWS meteorologist Rudzani Malala warned that “conditions are extremely dangerous – especially near coastal zones and flood-prone neighbourhoods. Stay indoors and follow municipal instructions.”