The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an Orange Level 5 disruptive rainfall warning for parts of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape.
A cut-off low pressure system will move across the Cape provinces from Wednesday, June 3, 2026. It brings heavy rain, strong winds, flooding and possible snow.
The warning covers a stretch from Plettenberg Bay to East London. This follows the Western Cape’s recent weather‑related disruptions, including school closures after a Level 8 alert less than a month ago.
SAWS said the system will affect the central and western interior of South Africa. The worst impacts are expected over the Cape provinces and nearby interior areas.
Heavy rain and flood risk across Garden Route
Rain will become widespread by midweek. The Garden Route District and parts of the Eastern Cape face the highest risk.
“The anticipated rainfall may lead to localised to significant flooding of susceptible areas, including roads, bridges, low‑lying settlements, and river crossings,” SAWS said.
Fast‑flowing streams and rivers could put lives at risk, the service added.
Officials urge motorists and residents to avoid unnecessary travel during peak rain. Do not drive or walk across flooded roads or bridges. Major transport routes may close due to flooding and poor visibility.
NOWinSA’s weather news coverage has tracked the Cape provinces’ volatile season. This latest front adds to a year of extreme conditions.
Orange Level 5 alert: what it means
SAWS has placed the eastern Garden Route District and the area between Plettenberg Bay and East London in the highest‑risk zone.
The service said: “Disruptive rainfall resulting in danger to life, flooding of roads and bridges, rapidly flowing streams and rivers, and possible closure of major roads is expected.”
A Yellow Level 2 warning is in place for other areas. There, localised flooding of settlements, roads, low‑lying areas and bridges is expected.
For live updates, check the South African Weather Service’s official tracking portal.
Snow possible on higher ground
SAWS said light snow may fall on higher ground in parts of the Cape provinces. Freezing levels will drop.
Snow could occur over:
- The interior of the Eastern Cape
- Southern parts of the Northern Cape
- North‑eastern high ground of the Western Cape
Accumulations will likely stay light. But SAWS warned that travellers and communities in mountain areas should keep up with forecast updates. Conditions can change fast.
Rough seas and strong winds along the coast
Strong winds and rough seas are expected along the south‑western and southern coastline of the Western Cape.
The conditions will make navigation dangerous, especially for small boats and recreational craft.
SAWS urged people to avoid all unnecessary coastal and marine activities during the warning period.
What residents should do now
SAWS calls on the public and local authorities to stay alert before the system arrives on Wednesday, June 3.
Residents should:
- Monitor official SAWS updates
- Secure outdoor property
- Keep emergency supplies ready
- Provide shelter, warmth and protection for livestock and pets
The warning applies from Wednesday, June 3, into Thursday, June 4, 2026. Conditions may last longer depending on the system’s path.
Related coverage
The Cape provinces have had a rough weather year. As NOWinSA previously reported, fires tore through the Eastern and Western Cape earlier in 2026 – and the region has seen little break since.
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