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Johannesburg-Cape Town flights disrupted by severe storm

If you are planning to fly from Johannesburg to Cape Town, you may need to reconsider your travel plans as flights are being disrupted by severe weather.

Poelano Malema
Written by
Poelano Malema
Senior City Writer, Time Out South Africa
The plane flies during a storm and heavy rain overcast
aapsky iStock | The plane flies during a storm and heavy rain overcast
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Flights to and from Cape Town International Airport have been disrupted following a storm that battered parts of the Western Cape over the weekend. The severe weather, which affected both Cape Town and George, has left at least three people dead and displaced thousands of residents. In response, the government has declared a national disaster in the region.

On Monday, Cape Town International Airport confirmed that adverse weather conditions had delayed, diverted, or cancelled several flights. According to Time Out Cape Town, routes most affected include those connecting Cape Town with Johannesburg, Durban, and Bloemfontein. 

The Cape Town International Airport has assured travellers that operations will continue. 

"Cape Town International Airport confirms that adverse weather conditions in both Cape Town and George have impacted flight operations. Despite the inclement weather, Cape Town International Airport remains open and operational," the airport said in a statement. 

"Airport operations continue to be closely monitored, and alternative airports are accommodating diverted flights where required. Passengers are encouraged to consult their respective airlines or the ACSA Mobile App for the latest flight information," the airport said. 
The South African Weather Service has issued a Level 8 warning, indicating a high risk of significant impacts. Severe weather conditions are expected to continue until at least Tuesday. 
Major attractions in the city have also been shut. This includes several sites across Table Mountain National Park and parts of the Boulders Penguin Colony walkway. 
"Due to fallen trees and branches caused by the current inclement weather conditions affecting Cape Town, the Forest Link walkway at the Boulders Penguin Colony has been temporarily closed to tourists until further notice. Teams will be mobilised to attend to the situation. Visitors are urged to exercise extreme caution during this period and to adhere to all safety signage and staff instructions. Due to the current inclement weather conditions affecting Cape Town and surrounding areas, certain sections and facilities within Table Mountain National Park may be temporarily closed for visitor safety," SANParks announced. 
The Cape Point is also affected. "Visitor Notice. Due to extremely strong winds at Cape Point, the Flying Dutchman Funicular and shuttle services will not operate today for safety reasons. We encourage all visitors to exercise caution as they explore the reserve today. Thank you for your patience, and stay safe," SANParks said
Cape Town International Airport is an award-winning airport and Africa’s 3rd largest airport. 

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