Six schools remain closed in Western Cape after storm damage

The Western Cape Department of Education says six schools remain closed in the Eden and Central Karoo districts due to damage from recent storms. Western Cape Education MEC David Maynier reported that 64 schools have significant infrastructure damage and the department is concerned about the financial implications.

Recent storms brought flooding and destructive winds that affected parts of the Western Cape. Six schools in the Eden and Central Karoo District stay closed mainly because roads around them were washed away or damaged, limiting access for students and staff.

Maynier explained the situation in a statement. "The storm has, of course, been devastating. We currently have six schools that are closed – those schools are in the Eden and Central Karoo District. Thankfully, we have managed to open all schools in the Cape Winelands District," he said.

Schools in the affected areas lost up to 13 days of learning. The department is working with districts to provide catch-up programs such as extra classes, online streaming or alternative venues so learners are not disadvantaged.

Makala yanayohusiana

Flooded informal settlement in Western Cape during severe storms with high winds and rain.
Picha iliyoundwa na AI

Severe storms hit Western Cape, causing deaths and flooding

Imeripotiwa na AI Picha iliyoundwa na AI

Heavy rains and gale-force winds from two cold fronts battered the Western Cape on Monday, leading to at least one confirmed death, widespread flooding in informal settlements, school closures, and disruptions to power and transport.

The Western Cape Education Department has confirmed that all schools in the Cape Winelands District have reopened following closures caused by severe weather last week.

Imeripotiwa na AI

Education authorities in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape have closed schools in high-risk areas on Wednesday and Thursday due to an intense low-pressure system bringing life-threatening floods and snow. The South African Weather Service issued multiple Orange-level warnings for disruptive rain, thunderstorms and damaging winds. Officials prioritised pupil safety as conditions are forecast to ease only from Friday.

A wave of strikes and arson incidents has led to the closure of numerous secondary schools across several Kenyan counties.

Imeripotiwa na AI

Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul has welcomed the national government's classification of recent severe weather as a national disaster. The move follows heavy rainfall and flooding that killed three people and damaged infrastructure across several districts.

Citrus farmers in South Africa's Eastern Cape are preparing for heavy rains forecast for later this week while still recovering from severe floods last month.

Imeripotiwa na AI

The Gauteng Department of Education will review its decentralised funding model for schools after municipal debts reached R583.9 million by the end of March. Education MEC Lebogang Maile announced the review on 17 May 2026 following court orders to restore electricity to affected schools. The changes aim to prevent further disruptions to learning caused by unpaid bills.

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