Eastern Cape Flood Emergency Deepens as Level 8 Warning Remains Active

The Eastern Cape remains in the grip of a severe weather emergency, with the South African Weather Service (SAWS) maintaining Orange Level 8 and Level 5 warnings for disruptive rainfall across large parts of the province.

As of Thursday afternoon, 4 June 2026, disaster management teams continue responding to flash flooding, evacuations, road closures and widespread infrastructure damage caused by persistent heavy rain.

Level 8 Warning Remains in Effect

SAWS has kept an Orange Level 8 warning in place for:

• Nelson Mandela Bay

• Kouga Municipality

• Kou-Kamma Municipality

• Sundays River Valley

An Orange Level 5 warning remains active for:

• Buffalo City

• Makana

• Ndlambe

• Ngqushwa

Authorities warn that saturated ground conditions mean even moderate rainfall is causing rapid flooding, swollen rivers and dangerous runoff.

Snow has also been reported in high-lying western mountainous regions of the province.

Emergency Evacuations Underway

Gamtoos River Valley

Kouga Municipality has issued emergency evacuation orders for residents living in low-lying areas along the Gamtoos River as water levels continue to rise.

Officials remain concerned about additional flooding should further rainfall occur over already saturated catchment areas.

Nelson Mandela Bay

In Nelson Mandela Bay, displaced residents from flooded informal settlements in Gqeberha and Kariega are being accommodated in temporary shelters established by municipal authorities.

Emergency teams continue assessing damage and identifying vulnerable communities.

Canal Systems Under Pressure

Water management infrastructure remains under close observation as floodwaters continue to move through the region.

Officials report that:

• The De Mist Canal is approaching maximum capacity.

• The Jubilee Canal remains stable but is being continuously monitored.

Authorities remain concerned that additional rainfall could place further pressure on drainage systems.

Major Roads Closed by Flooding

Several roads and intersections remain impassable due to floodwaters, mudslides and rockfalls.

Kariega Closures

Flooding has closed multiple key intersections, including:

• Roswell Gradwell

• North Street (Mosel)

• Graaff-Reinet Road

• Channer

Nelson Mandela Bay

The Third Avenue dip in Newton Park remains flooded and inaccessible to motorists.

Gamtoos Valley

Numerous rural roads throughout the valley have been blocked by:

• Rockfalls

• Mudslides

• Deep floodwaters

Motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and follow official road closure notices.

Eskom Secures Flooded Power Infrastructure

Eskom teams continue isolating electrical infrastructure in heavily flooded areas to reduce the risk of electrocution and equipment damage.

The utility says restoration efforts will continue once conditions are deemed safe.

Schools Remain Closed

The Eastern Cape Department of Education has confirmed that public schools remain closed across:

• Nelson Mandela Bay District

• Sarah Baartman District

• Buffalo City District

The closures are intended to protect learners, teachers and support staff while dangerous weather conditions persist.

Relief Teams Continue Support Operations

Emergency aid continues to reach affected communities through coordinated efforts involving:

• Eastern Cape Provincial Government

• Gift of the Givers

• South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)

Relief operations currently include:

• Food distribution

• Drinking water supplies

• Blankets

• Emergency medical assistance

• Temporary shelter support

Authorities have urged residents to follow official instructions and evacuation orders where necessary.

Situation Remains Fluid

Disaster management teams continue monitoring weather conditions, river levels and flood-prone areas as rainfall persists across parts of the province.

Officials have warned that the risk of secondary flooding remains high due to already saturated ground conditions.

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