A deadly storm lashing the Western Cape has killed three people and forced thousands from their homes. The provincial government closed all schools on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, as a safety precaution. Gale-force winds and torrential rain continue to batter the Cape Town metropole.
The City of Cape Town remains on high alert as mop-up operations intensify across the province. One fatality occurred in Kenilworth when a tree fell onto a vehicle on Monday. Disaster Risk Management officials confirmed that 1,655 dwellings have been impacted so far. This has affected over 5,600 people in various informal settlements.
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Schools and airports affected
Western Cape Education MEC David Maynier announced the province-wide school closure following a level 8 weather warning. The South African Weather Service cautioned residents about disruptive rainfall and dangerous coastal conditions. Several schools have already reported significant storm-related damage.
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) advised passengers of flight delays and cancellations at Cape Town International Airport. “Airport operations continue to be closely monitored, and alternative airports are accommodating diverted flights,” stated ACSA spokesperson Ofentse Dijoe.
Persistent flooding has reached religious and community sites. In Colorado Park, the Masjidul Wadood Mosque faced rising water levels as local catchment areas overflooded.
The City’s Disaster Risk Management spokesperson, Charlotte Powell, noted that teams are working to attend to service faults. However, she warned that hazardous conditions were hampering efforts.
Forecasters expect the deadly storm to persist through Tuesday with gusts reaching 78km/h. Localised flooding remains a high risk in low-lying areas. Authorities have urged the public to report all imminent dangers to emergency centres.
Image credit: David Harrison/GroundUp
