One person has died and another was injured on Monday after uprooted trees fell onto vehicles in separate incidents across Cape Town, as severe weather conditions continue to cause widespread disruption.
The fatal incident occurred in Kenilworth, while a second motorist was injured in Parow under similar circumstances. Emergency services said uprooted trees have been reported across multiple areas, in some cases bringing down power lines and affecting electricity supply.
City Disaster Risk Management spokesperson Charlotte Powell said teams have been deployed to assess extensive damage across the metro.
“We are dealing with a large number of uprooted trees and, unfortunately, we had a death earlier today when a tree fell onto a motor vehicle in Kenilworth. Our disaster management officials are assessing around 40 high-risk areas across the city,” Powell said.
She added that informal settlements remain among the most vulnerable, with flooding reported in several communities, including Khayelitsha, Gugulethu, Delft, Mitchells Plain and Imizamo Yethu.
“Our teams are working around the clock to clear roads, respond to fallen trees and assist communities affected by flooding and power outages,” Powell said.
Western Cape Mobility Traffic Chief Director Maxine Bezuidenhout warned that hazardous road conditions persist due to strong winds.
“Strong winds have caused multiple truck overturns on routes including Riversdale, Hemel-en-Aarde, the R43 at Theewaterskloof Bridge and the R44 between Arabella and Kleinmond. Motorists are advised to postpone unnecessary trips and remain highly vigilant,” Bezuidenhout said.
Gift of the Givers spokesperson Ali Sablay said humanitarian teams are responding to widespread needs in affected communities.
“Residents in informal settlements have suffered extensive damage, with roofs ripped off, fallen trees and widespread flooding. We are prioritising hot meals, blankets and baby care packs for the most vulnerable,” Sablay said.
The South African Weather Service said the prevailing weather conditions are expected to remain in place until Tuesday, with further impacts still anticipated.
Photo: Supplied
