Stories from Cape Town · South Africa

Cape Town has been experiencing severe storms for the third consecutive day, leading to extensive damage. The duration and intensity of the storms have caused disruption. Heavy rainfall and strong winds have led to flooding and infrastructure damage.

Severe flooding is impacting parts of Cape Town, with a particular emphasis on poorer areas. Residents with spare funds are encouraged to donate to aid relief efforts.

Planned water maintenance will occur in Noordhoek and Hout Bay, South Africa, from May 11 to May 13. Water supply will be shut off for bulk meter installations and construction work.

The Wemmershoek Water Treatment Plant in the City of Cape Town will shut down on May 12, 2026, for the entire day to allow for repairs. This maintenance may impact the bulk water supply. The City of Cape Town will conduct zero pressure tests on May 11, starting at 10 AM. This planned maintenance will affect multiple neighborhoods, potentially causing low or no water pressure.

The Western Cape government has strengthened disaster readiness measures in anticipation of two intense cold fronts. These fronts are expected to affect parts of the province from today until Tuesday.

A vote was held at the National Assembly in South Africa, which was intended to refer a specific matter.

The Democratic Alliance stated in Parliament that over 800 rape cases were closed because the South African Police Service could not locate the survivors. The party noted a general discrepancy in the numbers reported to Parliament.

The Board of Healthcare Funders and the Western Cape Government are challenging the National Health Insurance legislation in court. They argue that Parliament failed to ensure meaningful public participation before passing the law.

A group of tourists is traveling by ship from Argentina to Cape Town, visiting various islands and bird-watching sites along the way. The journey is part of a broader travel experience.

Five French nationals are confirmed to be among the passengers on the vessel. Two patients from the Hantavirus outbreak have been transported to South Africa for medical care. The deaths are suspected to be caused by an infection.