The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a series of warnings for the Western Cape as multiple cold fronts are expected to make landfall between Thursday, 3 July and Sunday, 6 July, bringing disruptive rain, strong winds, high waves, and plummeting temperatures across the region.
In its latest update, SAWS confirmed a Yellow Level 4 warning for disruptive rain, alongside Level 2 warnings for damaging winds and waves, and a general advisory for very cold, wet and windy conditions.
“The most significant cold front will reach the south-western Cape by Friday afternoon,” said SAWS.
“Quick and heavy downpours are possible, particularly over mountainous regions.”
Forecast at a glance
- Disruptive Rain (Level 4):
– 30 to 60mm expected across the south-west.
– Up to 90mm in mountain regions from Friday to Saturday.
– Saturated soils and consecutive rainfall events could cause flooding and infrastructure damage. - Damaging Winds (Level 2):
– Strong to gale-force winds (60-70km/h, gusting to 80km/h).
– Affected areas: Saldanha Bay to Cape Agulhas, especially on Friday, 4 July. - Damaging Waves (Level 2):
– Waves between 4.5 to 5.5 metres and periods of 10-12 seconds expected.
– High-impact conditions along the coast from Cape Agulhas to Plettenberg Bay from Saturday through Monday.
Safety and preparedness
SAWS is urging residents and visitors in the Western Cape to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel in flood-prone or coastal areas
- Secure loose items that may be blown away by strong winds
- Exercise caution at sea and avoid swimming or boating during high wave periods
- Ensure adequate heating and shelter as temperatures are expected to drop significantly
Local authorities are on alert and disaster risk management teams have been placed on standby.
For updates and emergency assistance, residents are advised to monitor official channels and weather bulletins.
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