SANParks temporarily closes parts of Table Mountain National Park following severe weather

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced the temporary closure of multiple sections and facilities within Table Mountain National Park due to severe weather conditions affecting Cape Town and surrounding areas.

SANParks spokesperson Peter Mbelengwa said the closures have been implemented in the interest of public safety as heavy rain, strong winds and flooding continue to impact parts of the Western Cape.

The affected areas include the Forest Link Walkway at the Boulders Penguin Colony, Oudekraal Picnic Site, Lion’s Head Summit, Signal Hill Precinct, Deer Park Trails, Newlands Picnic Site, Cecilia Forest Trails, Constantia Nek Trails, Tokai Picnic Site, Tokai Trails, as well as the suspension of Funicular and Shuttle services in the Cape of Good Hope area. Silvermine Gates and the picnic site have also been closed until further notice.

Park management teams are currently responding to several weather-related incidents, including fallen trees and branches, flooding, water damage, hazardous trail conditions and wildlife rescue operations where necessary.

SANParks has urged members of the public to avoid unnecessary travel and hiking activities within the affected areas. Visitors have also been warned to exercise extreme caution near rivers, streams, mountain paths, coastal zones and low-lying areas due to unstable conditions and numerous fallen trees.

While other SANParks-managed parks in the Cape region, including Agulhas National Park, Bontebok National Park, Tankwa Karoo National Park and West Coast National Park remain open, authorities said they are on high alert as severe weather persists across the province.

SANParks has appealed to visitors and residents to obey all safety signage, barricades and instructions issued by park officials and emergency personnel.