The National Sea Rescue Institute has issued a safety alert to the public following the arrival of a powerful cold front along the Western Cape coastline on Wednesday.

NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon appealed to the maritime community, including coastal anglers, paddlers, sailors, hikers, and shoreline walkers, to be extremely cautious as the stormy weather continues to affect the south-western Cape and moves towards the Southern Cape and parts of the East Coast.

“The South African Weather Service has issued alerts forecasting high winds, heavy sea conditions, waves of four to six metres, and rough sea conditions are being experienced.  We are appealing to the public and the maritime community to follow the South African Weather Services forecasts and to exercise caution during this time,” said Lambinon.

He also advised residents to avoid visiting the coastline unless it is absolutely necessary. “Commercial sea farmers, sailors, and fishermen, wear your life jackets at sea during this time and exercise caution,” he added.

The South African Weather Service has issued the following warnings:

The City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management spokesperson, Sonica Lategan, confirmed that teams are monitoring the impact of the severe weather.

“This far, the Disaster Operations Centre received reports of wind damage in New Culture on Mew Way in Khayelitsha, and an overflowing canal in Vygieskraal. Officials have been activated to conduct on-site assessments. The roads around the city are incredibly wet, and visibility is poor, so we urge motorists to please.”

She urged motorists to drive with caution as roads across the city are waterlogged and visibility is limited. “please slow down and drive with their headlights on. Please also be on alert for any obstructions on the roadway, like tree branches and other debris,” she added.

Emergency situations can be reported to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre by calling 021 480 7700.