South Africans are being urged to stay alert as severe weather warnings remain in place from Tuesday, 5 May, until Thursday, 7 May 2026.

The South African Weather Service has warned of disruptive rainfall, flooding and dangerous conditions across parts of the country. The strongest alerts are expected in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, where disaster response teams have been placed on high alert.

Warnings range from Yellow Level 2 to Orange Level 8. The Garden Route faces the highest warning level currently in place, with heavy rainfall expected along coastal areas.

Cut-Off Low Brings Heavy Rain

SAWS linked the severe conditions to an intense cut-off low pressure system. This system is expected to bring widespread showers and rain, especially over the eastern parts of the Western Cape from Wednesday into Thursday.

A Yellow Level 2 warning has been issued for disruptive rainfall over the central interior of the Western Cape and parts of the Northern Cape.

An Orange Level 6 warning is in place for the Central Karoo and western Garden Route.

The areas expected to see the heaviest rain include George, Knysna, Bitou, Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn.

Flooding Could Cut Off Communities

Authorities warned that heavy rain could trigger significant flooding, especially in low-lying and vulnerable areas.

Roads, settlements and infrastructure may be affected. Some communities could become temporarily inaccessible. There is also a risk of mudslides and rockfalls along mountainous routes.

Property, livelihoods and livestock may also be affected if conditions worsen.

Gauteng Also on Alert

Further inland, parts of Gauteng, including Johannesburg, are under Level 2 and Level 4 warnings for severe storms. Residents have been urged to take extra care on the roads and avoid crossing flooded roads, rivers and streams.

SAWS advised the public to keep checking weather updates and postpone travel where possible.

Motorists should slow down in heavy rain, keep a safe following distance and avoid taking chances at flooded crossings.

Residents in flood-prone areas should move valuables above expected flood levels and seek higher ground if trapped by rising water.