Several of the Western Cape’s protected natural spaces have been battered by severe weather, with CapeNature reporting widespread flooding, electricity outages and infrastructure damage across multiple reserves.
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The damage follows successive cold fronts that swept through the province in recent days, bringing heavy rainfall, gale-force winds and localised flooding to parts of the Western Cape. Roads, hiking trails, visitor facilities, offices and staff accommodation have all been affected in varying degrees.
Power disruptions remain among the most significant challenges facing reserve operations, while nearby communities have also experienced outages linked to the severe weather conditions.
CapeNature said hazardous travelling conditions continue in several areas due to flooded roads, fallen trees, debris and damaged access routes. Certain coastal and marine infrastructure sites have also sustained storm-related damage.
“The safety of our staff, visitors and surrounding communities remains our highest priority,” said Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature.
“While teams acted proactively ahead of the severe weather event, ongoing power outages and damaged access roads continue to pose major challenges in several affected areas. At this stage, the full extent and costs of the damage are still being assessed.”
Naidoo added that the conditions are affecting not only reserve operations and visitor access, but also placing additional strain on neighbouring communities and ongoing recovery efforts.
As a result, temporary closures have been implemented across a number of reserves. The conservation authority said the closures are necessary not only because of the ongoing adverse weather, but also to allow teams to conduct safety inspections, assess infrastructure damage and carry out urgent repairs before visitors are allowed to return.
CapeNature reserves are expected to begin reopening gradually between 15 May and 5 June, although reopening dates may change depending on ongoing assessments. Some reserves could remain closed even after weather conditions improve.
Visitors have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel to reserves while severe weather persists, particularly where roads, bridges and entry routes may be unsafe or inaccessible.
Travellers planning outdoor getaways in the coming weeks are encouraged to monitor the latest updates before setting off, as conditions may continue to change across the province’s protected areas.
For updated reserve access information, visitors can check the CapeNature website before travelling.
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