Add as a preferred source on Google

The Garden Route has experienced persistent rainfall over the past 24 hours, with periods of heavy showers reported overnight, leading to widespread disruption across the district.

While no major weather-related incidents have been reported to the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Emergency Call Centre, several impacts are being felt, including flooded roads, rockfalls and landslides in multiple areas.

The GRDM Multi-Agency Command Centre (MACC) remains activated, with emergency and municipal teams on standby and actively monitoring conditions across the district.

ALSO READ | Heavy rain, flooding and snow expected as intense cut-off low approaches

Dozens of low-lying bridges and river crossings are currently flooded, making it unsafe for motorists to attempt crossings.

As a result, several roads remain closed due to flooding, rockfalls, landslides and other weather-related hazards.

A total of 93 residents who were precautionarily evacuated from De Rust and Welgeluk remain accommodated at the Toekomsrus Community Hall, where support is being provided by the Western Cape Department of Social Development.

Authorities have warned motorists to avoid flooded and high-risk routes, with several hazards reported across the region:

• Water is pooling in urban areas, with stormwater pressure causing some manhole covers to lift
• Most closures involve flooded low-lying bridges and river crossings
• Rockfalls have been reported along the N12 near Chandelier Game Lodge, Nature’s Valley, Wittedrift (road closed) and the Kaaimans area
• Water pooling has been reported on the N2 between Sedgefield and George, near Waves Garage
• Fallen trees along Saasveld Road have been cleared, but the area remains hazardous

ALSO READ | Temporary detour opens after New Hanover bridge destroyed in heavy rain

Residents and tourists are urged to avoid low-water crossings, riverbanks and closed roads, and to remain alert to official updates from GRDM and local municipalities.