Container handling at the Port of Cape Town has come to a standstill as strong winds batter the region. The South African Weather Service has issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for damaging winds from Wednesday evening through Friday, affecting much of the Western Cape.
City of Cape Town Disaster Risk Management spokesperson Sonica Lategan said winds of 50-70kph, with gusts up to 90kph, could cause uprooted trees, roof damage, and an increased risk of runaway fires. Small vessels are advised to seek shelter due to hazardous sea conditions.
A port source confirmed that high winds had already halted container movements by Wednesday morning. Three vessels were currently being serviced, while another three remained at anchorage. Transporters were asked to remove their vehicles from the port, which had officially been declared “wind bound.”
Despite the severe weather, industry insiders hoped the port might reopen to transporters if wind speeds decreased later in the day. Meanwhile, Lategan urged residents to secure loose objects and be mindful of potential property damage.
The adverse conditions are expected to persist until at least Friday, potentially causing further shipping delays.
