Strong winds and high waves for Cape Town

The South African Weather Service has issued a warning for strong to near-gale force winds and high waves for Cape Town and the Western Cape.

By: Storm Simpson

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Yellow Level 1 warning for wind and waves in the Western Cape on Wednesday, 19 April. The weather warning key indicates there is a medium likelihood of minor impacts.

Potential impacts of the weather in Cape Town and the Western Cape

The weather warning is valid for the entire day on Thursday, 20 April, from 00:00 until 23:59.The coastline between Table Bay and Plettenberg Bay will be affected by the strong winds and high waves.

First, strong north-to-north-westerly winds of between 50 to 55km/h are expected between Table Bay and Cape Agulhas,

Then, predominantly west to south-westerly winds, reaching near-gale force (50 to 60km/h), between Cape Point and Plettenberg Bay,

“Along with the strong winds, wave heights of 3.5-4.5 m are expected (south to south-westerly swell), leading to very rough and choppy seas due to quick, successive steep waves. The wind and waves will moderate and subside from the west from Thursday evening,” said the weather service.

The potential weather impact of the wind and waves include:

• Challenges navigating the sea.
• Small watercraft such as kayaks could be in danger of flooding or tipping over in certain areas.
• Temporary disruptions to beachfront activities, small harbours, and ports.

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