
Weekend storm cuts power, destroys homes, displaces 4,000 Capetonians
Several communities were overwhelmed when floodwaters surged through informal settlements and residential areas across the metro.
Lategan explains that localised flooding in low-lying areas such as Mfuleni, Gugulethu, Sir Lowry's Pass, and Khayelitsha was reported.
The situation worsened when the Vygieskraal canal burst its banks, flooding several roads in the Athlone and Belgravia areas.
Among the worst affected was the Vygieskraal informal settlement in Athlone together with the Haji Ebrahim Crescent and RDP houses nearby. About 850 structures were damaged, affecting and displacing almost 4,000 people.
The storm also cut off power in many areas, which the City is busy working to restore.
Roads in Athlone were closed over the weekend but have since been opened while mop-up operations are in full effect.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Eyewitness News
23 minutes ago
- Eyewitness News
VIDEOS: Texas flood sweeps away entire cabin with 27 young girls
RELATED: Weekend storm cuts power, destroys homes, displaces 4,000 Capetonians A state of emergency has been declared in several areas where roads have been swept away, and phone lines are down. So far, 51 people have been confirmed dead, including 15 children. Scroll up to the audio player for more.

The Herald
23 minutes ago
- The Herald
Black ice is the cause of many road accidents every winter
'You should particularly watch out for black ice on bridges and overpasses [they freeze first], shaded or low-lying areas, early morning or evening drives and after light rain followed by freezing temperatures. 'You might notice the road looks wet but there's no spray from other tyres — that's often a clue. If there's frost on your windscreen, chances are the road could also be icy.' Ranft advised motorists who suspect black ice on the road to slow down and drive with caution, avoid sudden steering or hard braking, leave a greater following distance, keep their headlights on for better visibility and never use cruise control in icy conditions. 'Your tyres and brakes are your first line of defence. If your tyres are worn or underinflated or your brake system isn't functioning optimally, you're much more vulnerable. Safety doesn't come from luck — it comes from preparation.' Winter safety checks typically include inspecting tyre tread and pressure, checking brake pads, discs and the ABS system, assessing the condition of the battery, wiper blades and fluids and ensuring all lights are functioning properly. 'These small checks can make a big difference. Black ice doesn't give second chances. Let's stay safe out there,' said Ranft. TimesLIVE

IOL News
35 minutes ago
- IOL News
Bundle up! More chilly weather expected this week
Be ready for a chilly week ahead as rain and cold fronts sweep across South Africa, prompting residents to gear up for cooler temperatures and prepare for isolated showers. South Africans can expect a mix of cool and cold conditions this week as winter's grip strengthens across the country. With a blend of light showers and brisk winds on the horizon, locals are urged to bundle up as temperatures dip. According to the latest forecasts issued by the South African Weather Service, while most regions will enjoy stable and clear weather, specific areas are bracing for isolated rain. On Tuesday, weather conditions are expected to remain largely safe, with no severe weather warnings in place. The national impact-based warning map indicates a 'NIL' status across all provinces. However, residents of Limpopo and Mpumalanga should prepare for potential light showers, with a rainfall probability of 30%. Key locations, such as Polokwane, Phalaborwa, and Mbombela, are expected to experience scattered showers, while the northeastern coast near Richards Bay may also see brief rainfall. As we move to Wednesday, July 9, a cold front will begin to affect the Western Cape. This system is expected to bring isolated rain to the southwestern coast and adjacent interior regions, with a composite 30% chance of rain around Cape Town and Worcester. Meanwhile, the rest of the country will transition to cooler temperatures, as gusty winds usher in colder air across the interior.