# South African insurers have activated catastrophe claims protocols following severe storms across the Western Cape. Heavy rain, flooding and gale-force winds caused widespread damage, including uprooted trees and roof damage at the Whale Coast Mall in Hermanus. The South African Weather Service has issued a Level 8 warning for disruptive rainfall. Insurers, including Santam, say hundreds of claims have already been lodged. Residents are urged to document damages, report claims immediately and avoid unnecessary travel during the severe weather conditions.
Insurers activate disaster plans amid Western Cape storms