Extreme Weather Ravages South Africa’s Western Cape Leading To At Least One Fatality

Officials reported on Monday, April 8, that South Africa’s coastal province of Western Cape, including Cape Town, has been hit by heavy winds, storms, and intense rainfall, leading to at least one fatality.

The extreme weather conditions prompted the closure of schools and highways, particularly in the Cape Winelands, Overberg, and West Coast regions, where reports of damage to homes, roads, and public infrastructure surfaced. Authorities remained on high alert for further severe weather throughout Monday.

The single casualty reported was a security officer on patrol on a bike when a tree uprooted by heavy winds fell and tragically hit him, according to officials.

Furthermore, the heavy winds exacerbated wildfires in the Glencairne area of Cape Town, leading to the destruction of at least eight residences, as confirmed by a local representative.

As of Monday afternoon, parts of Cape Town experienced power outages, leaving some areas without electricity. Western Cape Premier Alan Winde announced the deployment of emergency services by the provincial government.

“We appeal to everyone to please exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel,” he said, adding that at least 26 schools had suffered weather-related damages across the province.

The South African Weather Service issued a high warning for the Western Cape region, citing extreme conditions and the possibility of flooding in other parts of the country, including the coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal and the populous province of Gauteng, encompassing Johannesburg.

KwaZulu-Natal has faced increased susceptibility to flooding, resulting in fatalities and significant damage to homes and infrastructure.

Melissa Enoch

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