South Africa warns of severe rain and flooding in Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal

South Africa's Western Cape and KwaZulu‑Natal provinces are under heightened alert as a cut‑off low‑pressure system brings heavy rainfall, strong winds and rough seas. The Western Cape Mobility Department urged motorists and pedestrians to reduce speed, increase following distances and stay visible, with spokesperson Muneera Allie warning that “roads are slippery, visibility is reduced, and stopping distances are longer.”

In KwaZulu‑Natal, the MEC of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, said disaster‑management teams are on high alert and have finalized winter‑readiness plans to protect lives and infrastructure. Residents were cautioned about localized flooding of bridges, settlements and roads, and advised to avoid travel on low‑lying routes, keep livestock sheltered and monitor rising water levels.