Eastern Cape downpours: Which areas received the most rain?

Heavy rain has affected several parts of the Eastern Cape, with Port St Johns recording one of the highest rainfall totals as thunderstorms and widespread showers swept across the province.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) had warned that a deepening surface trough and an upper trough could trigger thunderstorms across the eastern half of the province, with some becoming severe in the north-east.

Which areas received the most rain?

Rainfall measurements show that Port St Johns received particularly heavy rain during the recent severe weather.

Rainfall figures published by Cape Town Data, using data attributed to the South African Weather Service, show that Port St Johns recorded 98mm of rain in the 24 hours ending at 08:00 on Tuesday, 27 October.

Peddie recorded 37mm, while Mthatha received 32mm.

The figures cover a 24-hour reporting period ending at 08:00 South African time.

Port St Johns recorded the highest rainfall total among the stations listed nationally in that bulletin.

According to SAWS, a deepening surface trough and an upper trough created conditions favourable for thunderstorms across the eastern half of the Eastern Cape,bringing heavy downpours, strong winds and hail.

A surface trough is an area of relatively low atmospheric pressure.

It can encourage warm, moist air to rise, allowing clouds and thunderstorms to develop.

Which communities were affected?

The heavy rainfall also affected communities across the OR Tambo District Municipality.

According to SABC News, the municipality identified Mqanduli, Ngqeleni, Port St Johns, Qumbu and Tsolo among the areas experiencing flooding and travel disruptions.

The municipality dispatched disaster management teams to assess the situation and identify households needing assistance.

SAWS had warned that heavy rainfall could flood roads, bridges and low-lying settlements, while severe thunderstorms could disrupt electricity and communication services.

Residents should continue checking official weather updates and avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges and swollen rivers.