The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a new warning for UK tourists traveling to South Africa, advising them of potential flight cancellations and diversions due to extreme weather conditions. The updated travel advice, released on Monday, May 11, specifically impacts holidaymakers heading to the Western Cape region.
Severe Weather Causes Travel Disruption
The FCDO stated that strong winds and heavy rain across the Western Cape are causing significant disruption to air travel. Flights to and from Cape Town International Airport may experience delays, cancellations, or diversions to alternative airports. Travelers are urged to monitor their flight status closely and maintain regular contact with their airlines for the latest updates.
In addition to flight disruptions, the FCDO advises tourists to avoid flooded areas and follow instructions from local authorities. Extra time should be allowed when moving around the region.
National Disaster Declared
The South African Department of Cooperative Governance (DCoG) declared the severe weather a national disaster on Saturday night. Since May 4, heavy rainfall, flooding, thunderstorms, damaging winds, and snowfall have caused deaths, infrastructure damage, and disruptions to essential services in multiple provinces, including the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, North West, Free State, and Mpumalanga.
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) confirmed that both Cape Town International and George Airports remain open and operational, but adverse conditions have forced a wave of delays, diversions, and cancellations. Elias Sithole, Head of the National Disaster Management Center, stated, "I hereby give notice that I regard this occurrence as a disaster and classify the disaster as a national disaster."
Ongoing Impact and Humanitarian Response
The South African Weather Service expects the volatile conditions to persist through Tuesday, suggesting that disruptions at major Western Cape hubs could continue into the week. In the Garden Route District Municipality, several areas remain isolated, and some communities are without electricity. Humanitarian relief teams are distributing food parcels and blankets to affected communities.
UK tourists are advised to stay informed and follow all safety guidance from local authorities. The FCDO continues to monitor the situation and will update travel advice as necessary.
