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18 May 2026 Media Release: Understanding the Drivers Behind Recent Extreme Weather in the Southern Cape

Media Release: Understanding the Drivers Behind Recent Extreme Weather in the Southern Cape

For immediate release
18 May 2026

Recent extreme weather events in the Southern Cape have raised serious concern among residents, infrastructure managers, and environmental practitioners.

GREF Convener, Cobus Meiring, requested Knysna-based climate systems expert, Peter du Toit, from FutureClimateIQ to shed some light on why the Southern Cape increasingly experience such extreme weather events.

“The region’s recent experience of intense rainfall, flooding, and an unprecedented period of gale force winds is consistent with evolving atmospheric and oceanic conditions affecting southern Africa”, says Du Toit.

Du Toit explains that the Southern Cape sits at the intersection of several dynamic weather systems. The region is influenced by mid-latitude frontal systems moving in from the South Atlantic, as well as moisture-laden air masses driven by warmer ocean temperatures. When these systems interact under unstable atmospheric conditions, they can generate highly concentrated storm events with strong wind fields and intense precipitation over short periods.

One of the key contributing factors highlighted is the increasing variability in large-scale climate drivers such as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation. These oscillations influence rainfall distribution and storm tracks across southern Africa, often intensifying weather extremes when atmospheric conditions align unfavourably.

The recent gale force wind event, described by local authorities as unprecedented in its sustained intensity and spatial reach, is linked to a deep low-pressure system that intensified rapidly offshore before making landfall along the Southern Cape coastline. This created a strong pressure gradient, resulting in damaging wind speeds across exposed coastal and inland areas.

Du Toit further notes that while these large-scale climate systems are natural, their behaviour is being modified by a warming global climate. Warmer sea surface temperatures increase atmospheric moisture and energy availability, which can enhance storm development and severity.

However, he cautions that climate drivers alone do not fully explain the scale of impacts experienced on the ground. Local factors such as land-use change, degraded catchments, and invasive alien vegetation significantly amplify run-off, windthrow, and infrastructure vulnerability during extreme events.

The combination of these global and local influences is making the Southern Cape increasingly susceptible to high-impact weather events, requiring improved understanding, preparedness, and long-term resilience planning.

Feature Image: Peter du Toit, from FutureClimateIQ –Photo Supplied

Written by: Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF)

The GREF is a public platform for environmental practitioners and a climate change think tank (grefecsf.co.za).

ENDS

18 May 2026 Public Awareness: Food safety during power outages

Public Awareness: Food safety during power outages

18 May 2026

During the recent storms experienced across the Western Cape, many areas in the Garden Route district were and are still left without electricity for hours and even days. This type of disaster may lead to great food safety risk that a lot of citizens and holiday-goers, are not aware of.  During this time, food can spoil quickly if it is not stored or handled properly. Knowing what to do can help protect everyone from foodborne illnesses.

Below find several simple, but important food safety tips.

How to keep your food colder for longer

  • One of the most important things to remember during a power outage is to keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed for as long much as possible. Although there is no electricity used while keeping the doors closed, the refrigerator maintains the temperature for an extended time and therefore delays the spoilage of perishable food.
  • If the outage in an area continues, consider using a cooler box with ice packs for foods that must remain cold, such as milk, meat, eggs and leftovers.

What are considered high risk foods: Food that spoils quickly?

Raw meat, chicken, seafood, dairy products and cooked leftovers are high-risk foods and should be checked carefully after an outage.

Shelf-stable foods such as tinned goods, unopened juices, peanut butter and dry cereals are generally safer during long power cuts.

Remember these important rules: if food smells strange, looks unusual, or feels warm when it should be cold, throw it away and thawed food cannot be refrozen.

What are safe temperatures?

Food safety depends heavily on temperature. If perishable food has been above safe temperatures for more than two hours, it is safest to discard it.

How to maintain hygiene during storms

  • Storms can sometimes affect water supplies. It is best to use safe water or boil the water before use.
  • Wash your hands with soap and clean water before handling food. If clean and safe water is limited, use hand sanitiser containing at least 60 percent alcohol.
  • Also make sure kitchen surfaces, utensils and containers are kept clean to prevent contamination or cross-contamination.

How can you prepare for emergencies?

Preparation can make a major difference during emergencies. Keep an emergency supply kit with:

  • Ice packs
  • A food thermometer
  • Bottled water
  • A torch
  • A manual can opener
  • Non-perishable foods

Being prepared helps reduce stress and keeps your household safer during extended outages.

For more information or to report unhygienic practices by food handlers, contact the following GRDM offices within the Garden Route:

Johan Compion
Senior Manager: Municipal Health, Solid Waste Management and Air Quality
E-mail: info@gardenroute.gov.za
044 803 1300 / 082 803 516

Klein Karoo & Kannaland
Desmond Paulse – Manager: Municipal Health (Klein Karoo)
94 St John Street, Oudtshoorn
044 272 2241 / 083 678 6530

Mossel Bay
Rinay Cloete – Acting Chief: Municipal Health
C/O Sampson & Marling Street, Ext 23, Mossel Bay
044 693 0006 /  083 530 3709

George Outeniqua
Emmy Douglas – Chief: Municipal Health
Mission Street, Industrial Area, George, 6530
044 803 1501 /  078 457 2824

George & Wilderness
Lusizo Kwetshube – Acting Chief: Municipal Health
Mission Street, Industrial Area, George, 6530
044 803 1599 / 081 555 6992

Knysna
James McCarthy – Chief: Knysna
26A Queen Street, Knysna, 6571
044 382 7214 /  082 805 9417

Bitou
Gawie Vos – Chief: Lakes (Bitou)
4 Virginia street, Plettenberg bay, 6600
044 501 1600 / 083 557 1522

Hessequa
Haemish Herwels – Chief: Hessequa
24 Michell Street, Riversdale, 6670
028 713 2438 / 083 678 6545

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 17 on 12 May 2026 at 08h30

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 17 on 12 May 2026 at 08h30

Issued by Garden Route District Municipality

SITUATION SUMMARY

Today’s wind forecast for the entire region is 50 km/h (Orange Level 5), following severe gusts that exceeded 100 km/h on 11 May 2026. Damaging winds and waves along the coastline also remain a concern, with an Orange Level 4 warning currently in place.

Rainfall warnings of Orange Level 2 have been issued for George, Mossel Bay, and Hessequa, while Plettenberg Bay and Knysna is expected to experience more severe conditions, with an Orange Level 6 rainfall warning in effect today.

In addition, a Yellow Level 2 warning for storm surge conditions remains active along the entire coastline and is valid until midday on 13 May 2026.

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE

With rainy weather conditions continuing, members of the public who have lost their homes will need to be accommodated in community halls. At present, approximately 650 people are being sheltered at various community halls across the region:
– George (25)
– Knysna (391)
– Bitou (116)
– Oudtshoorn (65)
– Kannaland (53)
– Hessequa (0)
– Mossel Bay (0)

Seventy (70) learners (mostly matriculants), from Klaarstroom, are stranded at De Rust. The Department of Education are planning for learners to return home.

PRIORITIES FOR TODAY, 12 MAY 2026

– As electricity is restored in affected areas, particularly in rural areas such as Kammanassie, Joncksrust, and Hartebees River (south-east of Uniondale), residents cut off from roads are increasingly able to contact authorities to request food supplies.
– Further aerial support may be required, although current weather conditions are unfavourable. The SANDF has made a specialised 4×4 vehicle available to assist, and it is hoped that this resource will improve access to affected communities.
– Fire and Rescue Teams will continue to monitor and control affected areas for tree removals, including the clearing of dangerous or partially hanging branches that may pose a safety risk.
– The District Roads Engineer is assessing damaged routes to determine where roads can be restored or where alternative access routes can be created.

HIGHLIGHTS: 11 MAY 2026

– We are pleased to announce that the lady who went into labour yesterday was safely transported by the South African Infantry School, using a specialised 4×4 ambulance, to the Oudtshoorn Provincial Hospital. She successfully gave birth to a healthy baby girl shortly after 17h00.
– The body of the deceased man who was swept away in Klaarstroom to Meiringspoort, was recovered yesterday afternoon by the EMS Provincial Ambulance Services. His body was carried approximately 1.2 km from the location where it was discovered.
– The GRDM water tankers (8 000L and 10 000L) continue to provide assistance in the Bitou municipal area.
– GRDM also provided support to Kannaland Municipality after the informal settlement at Varkieskraal in Ladismith was flattened. Affected community members are currently being accommodated at a community hall. GRDM supplied gum poles, 40 mattresses, and 100 blankets as part of the relief efforts.
– George Municipality also requested additional assistance, and GRDM provided its remaining mattresses along with 80 blankets to support affected residents.

STATUS OF ROADS

During emergencies, authorities may fast-track or temporarily exempt some of these approvals. Certain emergency response and recovery activities may trigger environmental authorisations in terms of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), which may include amongst others:
– Opening temporary roads to isolated communities
– Removing flood debris from rivers
– Repairing damaged bridges or embankments
– Stabilising landslide areas
– Installing temporary infrastructure for disaster relief

AT 20h00 last night, the Western Cape Provincial Government informed the public that 50 roads are closed, with 11 partially open and 26 re-opened.

SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED TODAY, 12 MAY 2026

Disaster-related updates are published by Local Government here:

Only follow
Follow municipal Facebook Pages and WhatsApp Channels for updates in town areas:

Report Provincial Road Issues via Download the Roads4U app
Google Play
iOS

The Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management Unit encourages the public to report flood-related incidents to the 24/7 Emergency Call Centre of the GRDM – 044 805 5071 or WhatsApp 081 709 5193

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 16 on 11 May 2026 at 18h00

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Alert 16 on 11 May 2026 at 18h00

Issued by Garden Route District Municipality

SITUATION SUMMARY

TWO PEOPLE LOST THEIR LIVES

This morning, at approximately 10h00, a tragic incident occurred in Blanco when a 64-year-old woman lost her life after a tree uprooted and fell on her. Emergency medical services responded to the scene, but she was unfortunately declared deceased upon their arrival.

In a separate incident at Klaarstroom (foot of Swartberg Mountains), a man tried to cross a river on Saturday, 9 May 2026. Unfortunately he was swept away by the floodwaters. His body was spotted today in Meiringspoort after his father searched for hi. His body will be recovered when weather permits for a helicopter to fly.

“On behalf of the Garden Route, I would like to extend our sincere condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of those who lost their lives during these tragic incidents,” said Executive Mayor Marais Kruger.

According to Gerhard Otto, GRDM Head of Disaster Management: “Trees, branches, roofing material and other debris may still pose dangers to both motorists and pedestrians”.

MEDICAL ASSISTANCE REQUEST FOR ANOTHER LADY IN LABOUR

A request was communicated to the GRDM MACC for a lady who needs to go into labour and who requested to be assisted by medics. The plan is to consider deploying medics from the South African Infantry School in Oudtshoorn with a 4 x 4 ambulance.

STATUS OF ROADS

Several trucks overturned on the N2 between Hessequa and Plettenberg Bay. Hessequa alone recorded three trucks that overturned.

Around 15h30 today, the Western Cape Provincial Government informed the public that 55 roads are closed, with 5 partially open and 15 re-opened.

HIGHLIGHTS: 11 MAY 2026:

– Continued clearing of fallen trees and debris on roads across the district.
– Ongoing restoration of electricity infrastructure by ESKOM teams.
– Repairs to ten damaged power lines in the Kammanassie and Langkloof areas.
– Stabilisation and drainage work on the N2 near the KwaNokuthula turn-off.
– Continued landslide clearing operations on the R328.
– Water tanker support to communities affected by pump station failures.
– Restoration of access routes to isolated communities as weather conditions allow.

SCHOOL CLOSURES: 12 MAY 2026

All schools within the Garden Route will be closed tomorrow, 12 May 2026.

Disaster-related updates are published by Local Government here:

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 15 on 11 May 2026 at 11h45

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Alert 15 on 11 May 2026 at 11h45

Issued by Garden Route District Municipality

The Multi-Agency Command Centre has been alerted that schools from Mossel Bay, George, Knysna and Bitou have been advised to inform their learners return home.

For weather-related incidents, contact the GRDM 24/7 Emergency Call Centre on 044 805 5071 or WhatsApp 081 709 5193

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 14 on 11 May 2026 at 09h45

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Alert 14 on 11 May 2026 at 09h45

Issued by Garden Route District Municipality

SITUATION SUMMARY

At present, adverse weather conditions and strong winds are preventing the Multi-Agency Command Centre from deploying helicopter support. Aerial operations will resume as soon as weather conditions improve. Residents who are aware of individuals requiring urgent assistance are requested to contact the GRDM Disaster Management Centre on 044 805 5071 or their nearest local municipality.

With regards to humanitarian assistance, nearly 1500 food parcels/hampers have been distributed to communities in distress. The Gift-of-the-Givers and dozens of other Faith Based Organisations and Non-Profit Organisations have co-coordinated these supplies.

There are currently 61 roads closed across the Garden Route region as a result of ongoing flooding, landslides, fallen trees, and infrastructure damage. Response teams continue to work around the clock to restore access to roads and cut-off communities and essential services.

The R328 between De Kombuys Estate and Cango Mountain Resort remains closed while teams from the Western Cape Government (WCG) Department of Infrastructure (DOI) and the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) continue clearing a significant landslide and rockfall in the area. The estimated time to clear this road is not known.

On the eastern side of the region, work will continue on the N2 at the KwaNokuthula turn-off, where severe road surface damage occurred due to a blocked culvert. Stop-and-go traffic control measures will remain in place while engineers install drainage pipes to remove excess water and stabilise the roadway as quickly as possible.

Meiringspoort also remains closed. Motorists travelling towards Willowmore are advised to make use of the N9 as an alternative route. The estimated time to clear this road is not known because of the extent of the damage.

GRDM water tankers continue supplying water to communities where municipal water systems cannot operate due to electricity outages affecting pump stations and where other infrastructure was damaged. Water delivery operations are currently underway in Uniondale and Bitou.

Additional electricity disruptions have been reported in areas including Nature’s Valley, Hoekwil, Kurland and The Crags.

ESKOM and technical response teams are prioritising access to affected areas to restore critical services, repair damaged transformers, and attend to ten damaged power lines in the Kammanassie and Langkloof areas.

GRDM Fire and Rescue Services have deployed 25 firefighters to assist with the clearing of fallen trees and debris on roads throughout the district, in support of local municipal teams. Community volunteers with chainsaw equipment and relevant experience are encouraged to contact their local municipality should they wish to assist.

CRITICAL ALERTS

Humanitarian Response and Rescues – 10 May 2026

– Seven isolated areas in the Kammanassie region were reached yesterday, 10 May 2026.
– A total of 30 food parcels were delivered to affected families.
– Emergency food supplies were delivered to an elderly couple in the north-eastern part of Uniondale.
– Two individuals were successfully airlifted from the Kammanassie area.

Priority Operations – 11 May 2026

– Continued clearing of fallen trees and debris on roads across the district.
– Ongoing restoration of electricity infrastructure by ESKOM teams.
– Repairs to ten damaged power lines in the Kammanassie and Langkloof areas.
– Stabilisation and drainage work on the N2 near the KwaNokuthula turn-off.
– Continued landslide clearing operations on the R328.
– Water tanker support to communities affected by pump station failures.
– Restoration of access routes to isolated communities as weather conditions allow.

SCHOOLS CLOSED

– Britsevlakte Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerk Primary School
– De Jager Verenigde Gereformeerde Kerk Primary School
– Geelhoutboom Verenigde Gereformeerde Kerk Primary School
– Goedgegun Verenigde Gereformeerde Kerk Primary School
– Grootkraal United Congregational Church Primary School
– Hoogekraal Suid-Afrikaanse Sendingkerk en Verenigende Kerk Primary School
– Klaarstroom Primary School
– Kommandantsdrift Suid-Afrikaanse Sendingkerk en Verenigende Kerk Primary School
– Lategansvlei Suid-Afrikaanse Sendingkerk en Verenigende Kerk Primary School
– Mooi Uitsig Primary School No. 2
– Rooiheuwel Verenigde Gereformeerde Kerk Primary School

Disaster-related updates are published by Local Government here:

Only follow
Follow municipal Facebook Pages and WhatsApp Channels for updates in town areas:

Report Provincial Road Issues via Download the Roads4U app
Google Play
iOS

The Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management Unit encourages the public to report flood-related incidents to the 24/7 Emergency Call Centre of the GRDM – 044 805 5071 or WhatsApp 081 709 5193

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 13 on 10 May 2026 at 18h30

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Alert 13 on 10 May 2026 at 18h30

Issued by Garden Route District Municipality

UPDATE ON THE FLOODING STATUS TROUGHOUT THE GARDEN ROUTE

After a successful coordination meeting earlier this morning between the GRDM MACC, Eskom, the District Roads Engineer, and the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, priority areas requiring reconnection were discussed and key roads requiring urgent repair were identified.
Following these discussions, Eskom managed to restore electricity to several affected areas that were previously without power.

Electricity supply to Buffels Bay has since been restored.
However, the Kammanassie area remains a significant challenge, as the area has been severely affected by the recent weather conditions.

Bitou have raised concern over reports of vandalism and cable theft, particularly in the Bitou area, where electricity lines that are not yet live have become targets for criminals. More than one hundred thousand rand worth of cable has reportedly been stolen. Local SAPS members and neighbourhood watches have been requested to remain on high alert and monitor affected areas.

The helicopter pilot who was scheduled to assist on the Eastern Cape side was unfortunately unable to fly due to wind speeds of up to 45 knots. However, the Air Mercy Services helicopter based in Oudtshoorn was able to assist and attend to some of the affected areas.

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE

All calls received have been attended to and addressed. One or two requests remain in line for the next round of deliveries.

OUDTSHOORN:
A total of 56 people are currently accommodated at the Toekomsrust Community Hall, while 26 people are being accommodated at the De Rust Community Hall.

All surrounding roads are open, with the exception of Meiringspoort. The Kleinpoort area, parts of Rooiheuwel, and sections of Pardebond remain cut off.

Two of the six low-water bridges in town have been reopened. The Municipality’s Infrastructure Department will conduct assessments on the remaining bridges tomorrow. Four water tankers are currently operational, delivering water to the Dysselsdorp, De Rust, Welbedag, and Volmoed areas.

BITOU:

ROAD CLOSURE UPDATE – N2 BITOU

The N2 at Bitou is currently closed until further notice. The planned closure is in effect from now until 06h00 on Tuesday, 12 May 2026.

Provincial Traffic and Bitou Local Municipality Traffic are assisting with traffic diversions via the KwaNokuthula township, with vehicles rejoining the N2 thereafter.

SANRAL will be installing a temporary pipe across the N2 to restore functionality and support the reopening of the route.

ELECTRICAL OUTAGES IN BITOU

Areas still affected by electrical outages includes:
Keurbooms – Expected to be energized soon.
Ladywood – Work is ongoing under difficult terrain conditions.
Single Complaints – Three teams are currently attending to reported faults.

All remaining Eskom supplied areas are still without electricity and no estimated timeframes for restoration have been provided yet.

ROAD AND OPERATIONAL UPDATE

The District Roads Engineer has confirmed that they are still busy with assessment of roads in affected areas, however the Cango Caves Road will remain closed for some time.

Over the next week, operational focus will primarily be on Kammanassie, Daskop, Eensaamheid, De Vlugt, and Kykoe, where teams will continue with assessments and recovery work.

Only follow
Follow municipal Facebook Pages and WhatsApp Channels for updates in town areas:

Report Provincial Road Issues via Download the Roads4U app
Google Play
iOS

The Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management Unit encourages the public to report flood-related incidents to the 24/7 Emergency Call Centre of the GRDM – 044 805 5071 or WhatsApp 081 709 5193

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 12 on 10 May 2026 at 12h30

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Alert 12 on 10 May 2026 at 12h30

Issued by Garden Route District Municipality

UPDATE ON THE FLOODING STATUS TROUGHOUT THE GARDEN ROUTE

At this stage, many people remain cut off in affected areas. As weather conditions permitted yesterday, an aerial survey was conducted by helicopter across the district to assess structural damage to roads and infrastructure, as well as to determine whether any persons are in need of humanitarian assistance or medical care.

The Kammanassie area has been severely affected, with several areas still isolated. Road repair operations in these areas are being prioritised today, with the District Roads Engineer and his teams currently on site. Additional teams are expected to move into the Kammanassie and De Vlugt areas tomorrow to assist in re-establishing access routes.

These areas also remain without electricity.

Earlier this morning, a special coordination meeting was held between the Department of Infrastructure, Eskom, and communication network stakeholders to identify priority areas where roads need to be restored to allow electricity infrastructure to become operational again.

In Bitou and Knysna is also still areas that is without electricity and that is also a priority to get these areas up and running.

HUMANITARIAN RELIEF UPDATE

Humanitarian relief teams continue to distribute food parcels and blankets to affected communities. Yesterday and today, teams have been delivering relief parcels to areas including De Vlugt, Kammanassie, and surrounding Klein Karoo farms. Most immediate needs have been addressed.

The AMS Medical Rescue Helicopter is currently preparing to access areas identified since last night. A welfare check will also be conducted at Marthinusberg, where an elderly couple is believed to have last made contact on Tuesday.

Weather conditions remain a key factor, and authorities are hopeful that conditions will remain favourable to reach these isolated areas.

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

Two helicopters from Air Mercy Services, the Department of Health, and EMS in Oudtshoorn remain on standby to assist with medical emergencies.

A South African Police Service helicopter is also being utilised to support operations towards the Eastern Cape region and will assist in the Uniondale, Misgund, Krakeel, and Kareedouw areas.

SOUTH CAPE WEATHER SERVICE PREDICTS COLD FRONT FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW

As previously communicated, weather predictions indicate that the western parts of the Western Cape are expected to be most affected by the approaching cold front.

Colleagues in the Cape Winelands, Overberg, and Metropolitan areas remain on high alert and are preparing for the predicted storm conditions.

Only follow
Follow municipal Facebook Pages and WhatsApp Channels for updates in town areas:

Report Provincial Road Issues via Download the Roads4U app
Google Play
iOS

The Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management Unit encourages the public to report flood-related incidents to the 24/7 Emergency Call Centre of the GRDM – 044 805 5071 or WhatsApp 081 709 5193

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 11 on 9 May 2026 at 09h00

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Alert 11 on 9 May 2026 at 09h00

Issued by Garden Route District Municipality

According to Gerhard Otto, GRDM Head of Disaster Management: “These floods are the worst that the Garden Route have experienced in the past 30 years. It has left widespread devastation across the eastern parts of the region, leaving several communities isolated and infrastructure heavily impacted with at least 45 roads closed”.

Reconnaissance flights will also be conducted to assess damage and identify stranded residents in isolated areas. Another humanitarian relief operation is planned for today, with assistance expected to reach approximately 100 people in De Vlugt.

As of this morning, electricity supply to Bitou has been restored, while water pumping systems are operational again. Sewerage pump stations, however, have not yet been fully restored and Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) continue to closely monitor the water surrounding these sites.

A major concern remains Haarlem, which is currently completely cut off due to flood damage. Concerned family members have been unable to make contact with loved ones in these areas. Additional aerial assistance has been requested to conduct assessments over Haarlem and Avontuur to evaluate conditions and identify urgent needs.

Emergency teams from George Municipality are currently making use of a temporary pump system in Uniondale to maintain essential services. Backup systems have been put in place within the Uniondale and Haarlem areas.

Large areas along the N9 route towards Haarlem, including Herold, Louvain, Joncksrust, Avontuur and surrounding communities, remain without electricity.

Additionally, aerial assistance has been requested for the Prince Albert Municipal Area, in the Central Karoo District where several farms have been cut off.

DISASTER RESCUES

  • Two people became stuck in a truck at Meiringspoort in a truck yesterday and they were safely airlifted from the incident.
  • Two people were successfully airlifted out of the Gamka Nature Reserve yesterday and medical supplies dropped off.
  • Aerial activation was also done for Van Wyksdorp, where two persons were surrounded by flood waters, however managed to self-rescue when the vehicle shifted to a lower bank in the stream.
  • At Die Hel (near the Swartberg Wildlife Reserve), 11 guests will be airlifted and taken to safety.

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AT COMMUNITY HALLS

– George (29)
– Bitou (224)
– Knysna (±200)
– Oudtshoorn (32)

ROADS STATUS UPDATE

Due to rock falls, the R328 to Cango Caves from Oudtshoorn had to close due to rock falls.

Details of roads open, closed or partially open will be published as soon as it is issued by the Department of Infrastructure team.

Follow the Garden Route District Municipality’s Facebook Page to stay updated with the Disaster Response from a regional perspective:
www.facebook.com/gardenroutedm

𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐺𝑅𝐷𝑀 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑀𝑎𝑛𝑎𝑔𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑔𝑒𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑢𝑏𝑙𝑖𝑐 𝑡𝑜 𝑟𝑒𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑓𝑙𝑜𝑜𝑑-𝑟𝑒𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 24/7 𝐸𝑚𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 𝐶𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝐶𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑟𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝐺𝑅𝑀, 044 805 5071 𝑜𝑟 𝑊ℎ𝑎𝑡𝑠𝐴𝑝𝑝 081 709 5193

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Update 10 on 8 May 2026 at 17h00

Garden Route Multi-Agency Command Centre Alert 10 on 8 May 2026 at 17h00

Issued by Garden Route District Municipality

Relief and shelter efforts are continuing across the district as several communities remain affected the by severe weather conditions. River and dam levels in the district are slowly subsiding as the water levels starting to drop we get access some of the critical infrastructure still flooded. Repairs to critical infrastructure like water and sewerage pump stations had been prioritized.

The South Cape Weather Service has predicted another cold front expected to reach the Western Cape on Sunday and Monday. While the system is expected to affect other parts of the province more severely, the Garden Route District may be affected mainly in the western parts of the Garden Route. These areas were not impacted by the current storms.

The district remains on high alert, as the after-effects of the current floods are expected to persist for the next week.
The Robinson Pass between Oudtshoorn and Mossel Bay was reopened earlier today. However, on the N2 near Plettenberg Bay, officials are dealing with ponding caused by a blocked culvert that is approximately four metres deep. This will require extensive work to resolve the issue. Repair work has already commenced and, at this stage, the N2 remains open with alternative routes available.

The total rainfall to date is 300ml in Plettenberg Bay, 258 ml in George and De Rust 181ml to name just a few.

Mop- up operations is currently underway and will properly continue within next week.

RESCUE MISSION

Oudtshoorn and Kannaland

DISASTER RESPONSE UPDATE:

1. A mother and baby were successfully airlifted and transported to hospital.
2. Two persons were successfully rescued from Meiringspoort and are reported to be in good health.
3. Food parcels were delivered in Gamka South.
4. All 64 persons at Cango Mountain Resort were safely escorted out to alternative accommodation and homes respectively.
5. Two persons will be extracted from the Gamka Nature Reserve, while medical supplies have been dropped off.
6. A further 35 food parcels will be delivered simultaneously in the Gamka South area within the next 30 minutes.

CUT-OFF AREAS

Oudtshoorn: Rietvlei, Middelplaas, Kleinspoort and Bakenskraal. These areas are also on the list for food parcels.

All individuals requiring assistance who have made contact currently number approximately 250 people.

In the Knysna and Plettenberg Bay municipal areas, a significant number of residents are still being accommodated in community halls.

All main routes are accessible. However, residents and travellers are advised to refrain from using secondary roads and gravel roads within the district, as these remain wet and in some areas inaccessible.

ROAD STATUS UPDATE:

Oudtshoorn
Open Roads:
TR16/10 — Murraysburg to Graaff-Reinet (road flooded but passable)
TR34/2 — Prince Albert to Klaarstroom
TR31/5 — Huisrivierpas (rockfall cleared)
TR1/2 — Noll to Harold (debris removed)

Closed Roads:
DRE TR33/4 — Meiringspoort (poort flooded)
TR44/1 — Avontuur to Eastern Cape boundary (road flooded)
TR2/12 — Natures Valley to N2 (road flooded)
TR58/1 — Molteno Pass, Beaufort West to Loxton (road flooded)
TR33/2 — Oudtshoorn to Mossel Bay (expected to reopen by 13h00 on 8 May 2026)

Uniondale
Closed Roads:
MR401 — Uniondale Poort (poort flooded)
MR401 — Uniondale town (bridge approaches affected)
MR399 — Avontuur (road flooded)
MR368 — Hoekplaaspad (river overtopping road)
DR1845 — Toorwater/Nietgenaamd (road and low-level structures flooded)
DR1846 — Warmbad (road and low-level structures flooded)
DR1843 — Vaalwater (road and low-level structures flooded)
DR1840 — Hartbeesrivier (road and low-level structures flooded)
DR1837 — Dwarsfontein (road and low-level structures flooded)

Bo-Langkloof
Open Roads:
DR1640 — Harold (trees removed)

Closed Roads:
DR1645 — Waboomskraal (trees on road / tree over road)
DR1659 — Eensaamheid (river overtopping road)
DR1647 — Noll (water overtopping road)
DR1650 — Daskop (river overtopping road)
DR1654 — Molenrivier (tree over road)
DR1653 — Kykoe (tree over road)
DR1660 — Pietersrivier (water overtopping road)

Oudtshoorn East
Closed Roads:
DR1707 — Middelplaas (Meiringspoort River flooding)
DR1694 — Le Rouxstasie (Olifants River flooding)
DR1692 — Van Wykskraal (Olifants River flooding)
DR1673 — Kamanassiedam (Olifants River flooding)
DR1668 — Kleinspoort (Kammanassie River flooding)
DR1704 — Vlakteplaas (Olifants River flooding)
DR1694 — Vergelegen (river flooding)
DR1713 — Oude Muragie (rivers flooding)

Oudtshoorn West
Open Roads:

DR1671 — Highgate (Olifants River flooding nearby)
DR1688 — Old Concrete Road (debris removed)

Closed Roads:
MR369 — Swartberg Pass (heavy rain)
DR1677 — Wynandsrivier (river flooding)
MR358 — Volmoed (Olifants River flooding)
DR1649 — Paardebond (river flooding)
MR363 — Matjiesrivier (low-level structure overflowing)

Calitzdorp
Closed Roads:
DR1709 — Groenfontein (road flooded)
DR1706 — Groenfontein (road and low-level structures flooded)
DR1681 — Middelpad (road and low-level structures flooded)
DR1675 — Doornkloof (road and low-level structures flooded)
DR1676 — Vleirivier (road and low-level structures flooded)
DR1690 — Gais (road and low-level structures flooded)
DR1674 — Jagberg (road and low-level structures flooded)

Ladismith
Closed Roads:
MR309 — Seweweekspoort (road and low-level structures flooded)

Van Wyksdorp
Closed Roads:
DR1666 — Baviaanskrans (road and low-level structures flooded)

Knysna / Plettenberg Bay
Open Roads:

MR351 — Barrington (trees on road)
MR394 — Keurboomstrand (trees over road)

Closed Roads:
MR390 — Kruisvallei (trees on road / flooding)
MR355 — 7 Passes (trees on road)
DR1615 — Swart Rivier (river overtopping)
MR346 — Buffelsbaai (river overtopping)
DR1888 — Keurboomstrand (closed signs in place)
DR1613 — Phantom Pass (trees over road)

George West
Closed Roads:
DR1602 — Kleinplaas (river overtopping)
DR1633 — Jonkersberg (river overtopping / structure under construction)
DR1630 — Leeukloof (river overtopping)
DR1581 — Geelbeksvlei (river overtopping)
DR1617 — Nuwedrif (river overtopping)
DR1639 — Geelhoutboomberg (road underwater)
DR1634 — Searles (road underwater)
DR1624 — Kleinfontein (road underwater)

George East
Partially Open:
MR355 — 7 Passes near Geelhoutboom River (one lane open; half lane washed away and culvert exposed)

Closed Roads:
DR1625 — Die Vleie Oos (river overtopping)
DR1615 — Swart Rivier (flooding)

Mossel Bay
Closed Roads:
DR1604 — Haelkraal (river overtopping)
DR1587 — Donaldshoogte / Botlierskop (river overtopping)
DR1578 — Sorgfontein (river overtopping)
DR1525 — Melkhoutfontein (river overtopping)

Albertinia
Closed Roads:
MR337 — Albertinia (river overtopping)
Heidelberg
Closed Roads:
DR1266 — Gwarrievallei (river in flood)

Only follow
Follow municipal Facebook Pages and WhatsApp Channels for updates in town areas:

Report Provincial Road Issues via Download the Roads4U app
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iOS

The Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management Unit encourages the public to report flood-related incidents to the 24/7 Emergency Call Centre of the GRDM – 044 805 5071 or WhatsApp 081 709 5193