Western Cape flooding: Thousands affected, communities submerged… all to know

A powerful winter storm that hit the Western Cape on June 25, 2025, has left thousands affected as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding overwhelmed informal settlements across Cape Town and its surrounding areas. Rescue teams and emergency services are working around the clock to assist those impacted by this sudden disaster.

Catastrophic Flooding Across Low-Lying Areas

The storm unleashed its full force on low-lying neighbourhoods such as Tableview, Vygieskraal, Bonnytoun, Lwandle, Nomzamo, Khayelitsha, and Macassar, submerging homes and roads. The City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management Centre reported that canals and stormwater systems overflowed, leaving some areas up to a metre underwater .

Thousands Displaced, Informal Settlements Devastated

Humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers confirmed nearly 1,000 families severely affected in areas including Lwandle, Nomzamo, Gugulethu, Philippi, and Mitchells Plain . Informal settlements along the West Coast, such as in Saldanha Bay, are submerged in floodwaters, triggering full-scale relief operations .

Emergency Response Underway

The City’s disaster teams, supported by NGOs such as Mustadafin Foundation and Islamic Relief, are delivering hot meals, blankets, and hygiene packs to the most affected areas . Road crews are clearing debris and fallen trees while traffic officers implement detours around flooded zones.

Storm Surge to Bring More Rain and Snow

According to the South African Weather Service, a cold front is sweeping through with downpours expected to continue, potentially spreading to the Eastern Cape . Snow is anticipated in higher-altitude areas, with storm-force winds and rough seas threatening coastal regions.

Rising Risk of Road Closures and Power Outages

Persistent heavy rain has rendered several routes impassable. Drivers are urged to reduce speed and avoid non-essential travel, as flooding and fallen trees threaten power lines and city infrastructure .

Weather Advisory and Public Safety Measures

SAWS has issued Yellow Level 2 warnings for disruptive snowfall in high-altitude regions, strong winds, and coastal waves reaching up to 6 m along the Western and Eastern Cape coasts . Disaster management officials advise residents to secure property, avoid flood-prone zones, and frequently monitor local warnings.

Damage Beyond Cape Town: Eastern Cape Reeling

Earlier this month, the Eastern Cape suffered catastrophic flooding, with nearly 4,700 homes destroyed and approximately 100 fatalities, mostly around Mthatha. Officials warn that the current weather could reignite emergencies in the region.

What Residents Should Do Now

• Avoid floodwaters and fast-flowing rainwater on roads and footpaths.

• Secure loose outdoor items ahead of rising winds.

• Stay informed via SAWS alerts and local emergency channels.

• Donate relief items—blankets, non-perishables, and hygiene products—to Cape Town fire stations open 24/7 .

Looking Ahead: Recovery and Infrastructure Challenges

City authorities and relief organisations are moving into a recovery phase, assessing damaged infrastructure—homes, clinics, roads, and stormwater systems. This latest storm highlights the urgent need for climate-resilient infrastructure and long-term planning across both the Western and Eastern Cape.