- Severe thunderstorms have been forecast for the central Western Cape.
- Residents can expect significant rainfall of up to 30mm.
- Localised flooding is also expected.
Western Cape residents have been warned of severe thunderstorms in the Karoo along with disruptive rainfall in surrounding areas.
The thunderstorms, which started in the central parts of the province on Thursday evening, were expected to continue into Friday.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that disruptive rainfall can be expected in the Garden Route, Central Karoo, Cape Winelands and Overberg (east of Ceres and Robertson). The SAWS projects rainfall of between 20mm and 30mm, strong gusty winds, severe lightning and a large amount of small hail.
??Yellow + Orange warnings for severe thunderstorms valid for this afternoon and evening for parts of WC and NC. Localized flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas, bridges, mountain passes (especially Meiringspoort pass) and localized damage to infrastructure possible. pic.twitter.com/ht795oudeG
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) October 21, 2021
Western Cape Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC Anton Bredell said the regions affected include some of the worst drought-stricken areas in the province.
READ | 6 000 people affected by Western Cape storms
"We hope to see the good rains provide some welcome relief in this regard but must warn the public about the high likelihood of severe disruptions due to the severity of the storm," he said.
The SAWS has warned of damage to infrastructure and localised flooding in settlements.
"Localised flooding and flash flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas and bridges, including mountain passes, such as Meiringspoort Pass, due to heavy downpours may occur. We urge the public to use extreme caution when travelling around the affected regions… as conditions may be hazardous, and to avoid being outdoors as much as possible," said Bredell.
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