Garden Route on High Alert as Severe Storms Batter the Coast

A powerful cut-off low-pressure system has brought the Garden Route to a standstill and heightened the risk of flooding across the region. It has left one person dead and forced schools in the region to close as torrential rains continue to lash the region. 

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has maintained an Orange Level 8 warning for disruptive rainfall through Thursday, 7 May, 2026. Forecasters expect rainfall totals between 100 mm and 200 mm, with higher accumulations possible in localised areas. With catchment areas already saturated, officials have warned of high risks regarding rapid runoff, flash flooding, and damage to critical infrastructure.

Approximately 89,000 learners remained home on Wednesday after 125 schools in the Eden and Central Karoo districts were closed due to safety concerns. 

National Park Activities Suspended

In response to the storm, South African National Parks (SANParks) has activated its Safety and Flood Response Plans, resulting in the temporary closure of most outdoor activities across the Garden Route National Park to protect visitors.

In Wilderness, canoeing, boating, and hiking trails have all been closed to the public. However, the Ebb and Flow Rest Camp remains open. SANParks has deployed excavators to the mouth of the Touw River to assist with breaching and managing rising water levels.

In Knysna, hiking and cycling trails also remain closed, while the Otter Trail and Waterfall trail is closed in Tsitsikamma. Water activities at the Storms River are also suspended. 

The Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management Centre is working alongside SANParks and other partners to monitor river levels and rainfall intensity.

“These closures and activity suspensions remain in place to protect human life and reduce the risk of damage to infrastructure,” stated JP Louw, SANParks Head of Communications.
Authorities urge residents and visitors to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from low-water bridges, and monitor official updates as the weather system persists.