A powerful storm ripped through South Africa’s coastal city on Monday, killing at least one person, injuring several others, and leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
Violent winds and heavy rain lashed Cape Town, flooding streets, toppling trees, and tearing roofs off homes as emergency crews raced to respond. City officials confirmed at least one death, with multiple people injured and some still hospitalized.
One resident described the moment the storm hit: “I heard this huge noise outside and I ran outside. When I opened my front door, I saw seeds lying in the road. And when I looked to the right, I thought my roof was off. But luckily, my roof was still intact, but my neighbors—six houses next to me—all the roofs were blown off. And one guy got injured. He was also working from home. The wall collapsed onto him, and he got injured.”
Across the city, roads turned into waterways as cars and buses pushed through flood water. Fallen trees crushed vehicles and blocked routes. In several neighborhoods, strong winds ripped entire roofs off homes, leaving interiors exposed and waterlogged.
Cape Town Mayor Jordan Hill-Lewis said residents stepped in to help each other as emergency services dealt with the widespread damage. “I’ve heard stories of how neighbors are helping one another right here today and elsewhere. That’s wonderful to hear,” he said. “My condolences to those—we’ve had at least one person who has sadly lost their life, many who are injured, many who are still in hospital.”
Along the coast, gale-force winds bent palm trees as large waves slammed into the shoreline, forcing people on the promenade to brace against the gusts.
Emergency teams continue to assess damage as authorities warn of ongoing risks from unstable structures and debris.