Cape Town and surrounding regions in the Western Cape, South Africa, are grappling with severe flooding following heavy rainfall. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Yellow Level 4 Warning for Disruptive Rainfall, effective from July 3rd to July 6th, 2025, predicting significant rainfall and potential flooding.
On July 5th, 2025, the Western Cape Disaster Management Centre reported that heavy downpours caused widespread displacement. Thousands of residents were forced from their homes due to the floods that occurred the previous night. Areas such as Mfuleni, Gugulethu, and Khayelitsha were among the hardest hit.
The Vygieskraal canal overflowed, exacerbating flooding in the Athlone/Belgravia area. Structural damage assessments revealed approximately 500 structures impacted in the Vygieskraal informal settlement, affecting 2,000 residents. Humanitarian relief efforts are underway, with partners providing essential aid to those displaced.
Authorities are actively monitoring the situation, providing updates and assistance. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, avoid hazardous areas, and report emergencies. Motorists are advised to exercise extreme caution due to dangerous driving conditions caused by the ongoing rainfall.