A massive storm has hit the Western and Eastern Cape – affecting certain roads with severe flooding and uprooted trees – with motorists advised to only travel if absolutely necessary.

Of serious concern are the strong winds and lightning being experienced across the central parts of Cape Town. Rainfall of 50 milimetres is expected over a 24-hour period on Wednesday, 7 June, as well as gale to strong gale force north-westerly winds of 60 to 90 km/h over the Western Cape, Northern Cape and western parts of the Eastern Cape on Wednesday, moderating on Thursday afternoon.

While the N1 towards the city is said to be free-flowing with lighter traffic, reports of fallen trees affecting road access on the N7 just before Malmesbury have been posted.

There has also been a power failure in the Huguenot Tunnel, affecting N1 route travel – the tunnel is closed to heavy vehicles at the moment – trucks are being diverted via Du Toitskloof pass.

Chapman’s Peak Drive has also been closed due to adverse weather.

“Currently the N2 at Perigreen Grabouw also closed for traffic due to an uprooted tree.”

TrafficSA warns the N2 is closed in both directions for about 5km on the Plettenberg Bay side of Knysna due to flooding.

What to do during a major storm with gale force winds:

– Disconnect appliances

– Stay inside well clear of windows, sheltering in the strongest part of the house (internal hallway, bathroom or cellar)

– Keep an emergency kit with you that includes things like first aid supplies, torch, battery operated portable radio, important documents and medicines.

– If possible stay in secure shelter

-Avoid driving by road as far as possible, stay in your vehicle if caught on the road, with the car handbrake on and parked well clear of trees, powerlines and possible flooding

– Never drive, ride or walk in floodwaters

-Fill buckets, sinks and baths with water in case the water supply becomes restricted.

Important Emergency contact numbers:

City of Cape Town: 107 landline or 021 480 7700
Police Flying Squad: 10111
Ambulance: 10177
City of Cape Town General Emergency: 107
Cellphone Emergency: 112 (MTN, Vodacom, Cell C and Telkom)
Red Cross Children’s Hospital Poison Line & the Tygerberg Hospital Poison Information Centre: 0861 555 777
Safe Schools: 0800 45 46 47
Western Cape Government: 0860 142 142
Sea Rescue: 021 449 3500
Mountain Rescue: 021 948 9900
Disaster Management: 080 911 4357
Eden District: 044 805 5071
Central Karoo: 023 414 2603
West Coast: 022 433 8700
Overberg: 028 271 8111