South Africa: Adverse weather conditions forecast for Western Cape and parts of Northern Cape through April 9

The South African Weather Service has issued various adverse weather warnings for the Western Cape and parts of the southern Northern Cape through April 8. The most significant warnings include:

• Orange Level 6 rain warning: From April 7-8, heavy rainfall is forecast for the City of Cape Town, Cape Winelands, and Overberg.

• Orange Level 6 wind warning: For coastal areas between Table Bay and Cape Agulhas from April 6-9.

Various other yellow wind, rain, and storm surge-related warnings are in place for much of the rest of the province and parts of the southern Northern Cape. The Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) has warned of landslides impacting recently burnt slopes. Cape Town emergency response officials are reportedly on alert. Officials could update or amend warnings in the coming days.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the east coast if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.