WC government set to declare recent storms a provincial disaster

A flooded home in Paarl.

The Western Cape government is scheduled to meet on Wednesday to consider classifying the recent severe storms as a provincial disaster.

Following the meeting, the provincial government will approach the National Disaster Management Centre to seek a formal classification.

Provincial Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism Minister Ivan Meyer says the agricultural sector has been particularly hit hard by the storm.

He says areas such as the Hex River Valley, Grabouw, Elgin, Ceres and Worcester have suffered devastating damage.

“I am deeply concerned about the huge damage caused by the recent floods in the Western Cape. The agricultural sector experienced huge losses in terms damages on farms, farm roads, irrigation systems, pack houses, orchards, vineyards and farm houses. We have met with the agricultural sector, and we are busy prioritising the fixing of roads and other critical infrastructure in the province.”

WATCH | Head of Western Cape Disaster Risk Management, Colin Deiner provides an update on the impact of severe weather following destructive storms across the province. pic.twitter.com/Dm8461PLxx

— SABC News (@SABCNews) May 18, 2026