The Cape Town storm of 11 to 12 May 2026 damaged more than 10 000 structures, flooded 26 informal settlements and affected more than 5 000 residents across the metro.
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Level 8 warning and 100km/h winds
The South African Weather Service issued an Orange Level 8 warning for disruptive rainfall and gale-force winds, with gusts reaching 100km/h. Two cold fronts making landfall in quick succession drove the intensity, dropping 100 to 200mm of rain across the west coast and Cape Winelands.
Schools closed and residents relocated
The Western Cape Education Department closed schools on Tuesday, 12 May. Affected families were housed in five municipal halls while helicopters reached cut-off communities. One death was confirmed and the Langrug informal settlement was among the worst hit.
Sources: IOL, Daily Maverick, Mail & Guardian.
