Western Cape activates disaster response as floods hit

Cape Town – The Western Cape government says a coordinated disaster response remains underway as severe weather continues to affect parts of the province, with the Garden Route and Central Karoo among the hardest-hit areas.

Acting Premier Ivan Meyer and acting provincial MEC for Local Government Anroux Marais on Thursday outlined measures being implemented in response to the intense cut-off low weather system.

A Joint Operations Centre has been activated through the Provincial Disaster Management Centre to coordinate relief efforts as localised flooding, road closures and evacuations continue across affected municipalities.

⚠️ ROAD CLOSURE UPDATE: 7 May

Multiple roads remain closed across the Overberg, Garden Route & Central Karoo due to flooding.

🟢 Huisrivier Pass & Prince Albert–Klaarstroom have reopened.

Do not cross flooded roads. Our teams are on the ground.

Full list 👇 pic.twitter.com/e2o8QcmfM7

— Premier Alan Winde (@alanwinde) May 7, 2026

Authorities confirmed that one person, Western Cape Department of Social Development employee Lauren Fredericks, died during the severe weather conditions.

“Our priority during disasters is always to protect lives. Ms Fredericks’ death is deeply unfortunate,” Meyer said, extending condolences to her family and colleagues.

Emergency shelters, food assistance and support services have been activated in several municipalities, including Bitou, Knysna, Oudtshoorn and Prince Albert, where hundreds of displaced residents are being housed in churches and community halls.

The provincial government also confirmed that 10 people remain cut off by floodwaters in Oudtshoorn but are not believed to be in immediate danger, while all 64 occupants at the Oudtshoorn Mountain Resort are safe.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation @TrafficRTMC has issued a traffic advisory warning motorists about severe weather conditions affecting several parts of the country, particularly in the Eastern Cape, North West, Overberg, Garden Route and Central Karoo regions.

According… pic.twitter.com/8w9FJOKxRR

— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) May 7, 2026

Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant, avoid flooded roads and comply with emergency instructions as the risk of flooding persists despite weather conditions in the Garden Route being downgraded.

“I urge all residents to remain safe and not take unnecessary risks,” Meyer said, praising disaster management teams, NGOs, faith-based groups and emergency personnel for their response efforts.

Marais also thanked all organisations and officials involved in assisting affected communities, saying their “commitment, professionalism, and service are deeply appreciated.”