Watch: Cut-off low brings snow, floods and road closures across SA

Severe weather conditions linked to an intense cut-off low system are causing widespread disruption across parts of South Africa, with snow, flooding, road closures and power outages reported. Authorities have urged residents and travellers to exercise extreme caution as conditions are expected to persist into tomorrow. In the Garden Route, heavy rainfall has already led to significant disruption.

Municipal authorities issueda weather alert and travel advisory for George and the surrounding areas, warning of hazardous driving conditions, localised flooding and potential infrastructure damage. Awidespread unplanned power outagehas also affected parts of the region, further complicating conditions for residents. Key mountain passes have been impacted, with theSwartberg Pass and Meiringspoort Pass closeddue to unsafe conditions.

Motorists have been urged to avoid these routes until further notice. A massive tree uprooted by heavy rain and wind crashed onto a car in Knysna today (May 6). According to theKnysna-Plett Herald, the incident occurred at the corner of Main Road (N2) and Queen Street.

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Authorities were on the scene directing traffic, and that section of the N2 was closed. Police have been contacted to confirm whether the vehicle’s occupants survived. Footage captured shows the Camphersdrift River in George flowing strongly from the old Camphersdrift Dam, forming a waterfall west of the trail commonly known as ACDC.

A video taken on Central Beach in Plettenberg Bay shows water from the Piesang River forcing open the estuary near Beacon Isle resort, opposite the Robberg Beach car park. Water can be seen surging beneath the pedestrian footbridge linking the resort to the Central Beach parking area. A Knysna family is awaiting assistance after their shack in Concordia flooded at around 03:00.

Heavy rains have caused widespread disruption in informal settlements across Knysna, George and surrounding areas. SANParks has begun opening the mouth of the Touw River in Wilderness after deploying an excavator to the site. The intervention aims to balance ecological health with protecting residents in low-lying areas.

Flood damage along Serpentine Road in George, from Waves Circle to where 1st Avenue meets Serpentine, has forced road closures. Contractors are on site, and motorists are advised to avoid the area.

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