Residents of Cape Town and surrounding areas are bracing for a powerful cold front expected to bring severe weather conditions this weekend. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for damaging winds and waves, with the worst impacts anticipated from Friday evening, May 9, 2025, into Saturday, May 10, 2025.
According to Sonica Lategan, spokesperson for the City of Cape Town's Disaster Risk Management, strong to gale-force north-westerly to westerly winds are forecast to hit the Western Cape coastline, peaking on Friday night and continuing through Saturday. "The forecast is for strong to gale force north-westerly to westerly winds along the Western Cape coastline between Friday evening and Saturday evening, with the wind starting to moderate from Saturday afternoon," Lategan explained.
The expected impacts are serious, with potential for uprooted trees, damage to roofs, and an increased risk of runaway fires. Coastal activities may also face disruption. Lategan urged residents to take precautions, stating, "The public is urged to secure objects on their properties that could be carried by the wind, like outside furniture, and to be mindful of potential damage to garage doors, sliding doors, and windows."
As the cold front approaches, the SAWS has also warned of very cold, wet, and windy conditions expected over the Karoo Hoogland and Witzenberg municipalities on Saturday. Fresh to strong winds are already anticipated on Friday, with temperatures in Johannesburg expected to range from a low of 11°C to a high of 22°C, while Pretoria will see a minimum of 13°C and a maximum of 24°C.
In addition to the wind warnings, the SAWS has issued advisories for harmful waves that could pose navigation problems for small vessels and personal watercraft along the coast between Table Bay and Plettenberg Bay. This warning is in effect from Saturday, May 10, 2025, to Sunday, May 11, 2025.
Motorists are advised to remain vigilant for road hazards during this period. Lategan noted, "When traveling, please be on the lookout for obstructions on the roadway, like fallen trees or other debris." Residents are also encouraged to report any weather-related emergencies to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre at 021 480 7700.
The warnings come as emergency teams prepare for possible infrastructure damage and safety risks throughout the weekend. The City of Cape Town is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of its residents as they face these challenging weather conditions.
As the cold front moves across the region, it will bring not only harsh winds but also the potential for significant rainfall. This combination of elements raises the risk of flooding in low-lying areas and could exacerbate existing fire hazards in certain regions.
In light of these warnings, residents are reminded to stay informed and to follow updates from local authorities. The City has committed to keeping the public informed about the evolving situation and any necessary safety measures that should be taken.
With the weather set to change dramatically over the coming days, it’s essential for residents to remain prepared and to heed the advice of emergency services. This cold front serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of community readiness in the face of severe weather.
As the weekend approaches, all eyes will be on the Western Cape as residents hope for minimal disruption and damage. The City of Cape Town remains on high alert, ready to respond to any emergencies that may arise as a result of the anticipated weather conditions.
In summary, the cold front expected to hit the Western Cape this weekend brings with it a serious threat of damaging winds and waves. Residents are urged to take all necessary precautions to protect their homes and ensure their safety as they navigate the challenges posed by this severe weather event.
As always, staying informed and prepared is key to weathering such storms, and the City is committed to supporting its residents in any way possible during this turbulent time.
