Cape Town's wet July sees record-breaking rainfall

July 2024 saw record-breaking rainfall in Cape Town, following a series of cold fronts, and a damaging Level 8 storm.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) confirmed that in the beginning of June, rainfall accumulation was notably below normal, consistent with seasonal forecasts that predicted a drier winter period.

‘’However, the landscape changed drastically in July, as a series of cold fronts swept through the region, some of which brought severe weather conditions and substantial rainfall,’’ said SAWS in a statement.

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According to the weather service, the Cape Town City (Oranjezicht) station recorded 317,6 mm of rain in July 2024, far exceeding the long-term average of 128 mm for this month.

‘’This notable total not only exceeded the historical average, but it is also the highest monthly rainfall recorded for July since comprehensive records began in 1960. In contrast, the previous year saw only 81,8 mm of rain in July, highlighting the major difference in rainfall between these two years.’’

Additionally, the Cape Town International Airport station recorded the highest monthly rainfall total since the station’s inception in July 1956, exceeding three times the average for July.

‘’This remarkable record underscores the intensity and impact of the multiple cold fronts experienced throughout the month.''

SCREENSHOT: SAWS

The station in Newlands at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens received over 500 mm of rain for July, making it the wettest month on record for this station since 1999, says SAWS. Additionally, the stations in Franschhoek, Kenilworth, and Villiersdorp, with records dating back to the late 2000s, also reported significant rainfall for the month. These three stations set new records since their inception, even surpassing the total monthly rainfall recorded during the September storm of 2023.

SCREENSHOT: SAWS

The SA Weather Service said those in the Cape Winelands stations, including Paarl, Worcester, and Jonkershoek, have also experienced substantial rainfall this winter season, with long-term monthly records being broken in these areas last month.

‘’The transition from a dry start to a series of impactful weather systems reminds us of the complexities of our climate. It also emphasises the importance of our role in providing accurate forecasts and timely updates to the public.

‘’This recent uptick in rainfall serves as a reminder of the vital role the SAWS plays in preparing communities for the varying weather conditions that can arise. The fluctuations in weather patterns do not only keep us on our toes but also highlight the importance of preparedness and resilience!’’

‘’Widespread damage was reported from the start of July well into the month, including strong winds that blew off roofing and minor disruptive hail reported on 7 July 2024, in Stellenbosch’s Helshoogte Pass. As usual, thick blankets of snow covered the mountainous areas of the Western Cape, bringing shivering temperatures during this period,’’ concluded SAWS.

 

Done By: Mitchum George