The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an Orange Level 8 warning for disruptive rainfall across parts of the Western Cape as another powerful cold front approaches the province.
The warning applies to the eastern Garden Route District, where rainfall of between 150mm and 200mm is forecast between 3 and 4 June. A Yellow Level 4 warning has also been issued for the Central Karoo, Swellendam Municipality and western parts of the Garden Route, where rainfall totals of 50mm to 90mm are expected.
Forecasters have cautioned that even higher rainfall totals could occur in mountainous areas.
The latest warning comes less than a month after severe storms battered the province, leaving a trail of destruction across communities, farms and critical infrastructure.
According to SAWS, the affected regions remain highly vulnerable due to saturated ground conditions and dams that are already close to capacity or overflowing.
As a result, authorities are warning of a heightened risk of flooding in both formal and informal settlements, with roads, bridges and public infrastructure potentially affected.
Fast-flowing rivers and rising water levels could also pose a danger to residents, while some communities may become isolated if access routes are cut off.
The expected weather conditions may trigger mudslides and rockfalls, particularly in mountainous regions and along major passes, while agricultural areas could face further losses due to water damage and livestock risks.
SAWS stressed that weather systems remain dynamic and forecasts may change as conditions develop.
Residents have been urged to stay informed through official weather updates, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall and never attempt to cross flooded roads or rivers.
The warning follows the devastating storms that struck the Western Cape between 10 and 13 May, which claimed at least 11 lives, damaged thousands of homes and caused extensive losses across the agricultural sector.
With another major rainfall event on the horizon, disaster management teams and local authorities are closely monitoring conditions as communities prepare for potential flooding and storm-related disruptions.