Storm systems wreak havoc on Garden Route, Southern Cape

Severe weather is causing widespread disruption across the Garden Route and Southern Cape, with flooding, road closures, school shutdowns and park closures now confirmed.

The Western Cape Provincial Disaster Management Centre put the province on high alert on May 5 after an Orange Level 8 disruptive rainfall warning from the South African Weather Service. Officials said the Garden Route District was expected to be the hardest hit, with heavy rain and strong winds forecast through May 6 and May 7.

The warning has since turned into visible disruption on the ground. Later reporting on May 6 confirmed flooding and road closures in parts of the Garden Route, including Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.

The Western Cape Education Department closed schools in selected Eden and Central Karoo circuits for May 6 and May 7. The affected areas include parts of George, Knysna and Oudtshoorn.

SANParks also temporarily closed water-based activities and several hiking and cycling routes in the Garden Route National Park because of the flooding risk.

Authorities had already urged residents and travelers to prepare for disruptive rainfall, with totals of up to 150 to 200 mm possible in the worst-affected areas. The latest reports show the storm system is now affecting transport, education and outdoor recreation across the region.

Officials have not yet said how long the disruption will last, and conditions could worsen as the system continues through the area.