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SA Weather Service Issues Level 4 Storm Warning for Western Cape as Authorities Activate Response

Disaster services mobilised after destructive hail in the Eastern Cape, with forecasts subject to change.

Overview

  • SAWS placed the Overberg and southern Cape Winelands under a Yellow Level 4 alert for February 9, warning of localised flooding, large hail and major travel disruptions from possible fallen trees.
  • Guidance points to 40–70 mm of rain in many areas with parts of the Overberg potentially exceeding 100 mm, though the location and intensity of the heaviest rainfall may shift.
  • KwaZulu-Natal faced an Orange Level 5 warning on February 8 for western and southern districts, with provincial disaster teams prioritising high‑risk areas and municipal advisories urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and flooded crossings.
  • A severe hailstorm in KwaNikhwe, Mbizana, destroyed homes, damaged vehicles and crops, and caused power outages and flash flooding, leaving several families displaced and calling for government assistance.
  • For February 10, SAWS issued Yellow Level 2 thunderstorm alerts for parts of the Northern Cape, North West, Free State, southern KwaZulu-Natal and most of the Eastern Cape, citing risks of localised flooding and small hail.