Severe storms in South Africa result in ten fatalities and national disaster declaration

Severe storms characterized by intense rainfall and winds exceeding 120 km/h have impacted multiple provinces in South Africa. As of Monday, May 11, 2026, the South African presidency confirmed at least ten deaths resulting from the extreme weather. Cape Town and the surrounding province have been significantly affected by the conditions. Local authorities reported two fatalities in the Garden Route area due to falling trees, while a third individual drowned while attempting to cross a river. The extreme weather caused widespread property damage, including the destruction of roofs, fallen trees, and severe flooding. The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) reported operational disruptions at airports in Cape Town and George. In response to the crisis, President Cyril Ramaphosa officially declared a state of national disaster to facilitate government recovery efforts.