Understanding the Stanford Flood of 2023: Lessons for the Future

In September 2023, a cut-off low-pressure system caused extreme flooding in Stanford, Hermanus, and the surrounding Overberg areas - damaging infrastructure, homes, and even parts of the N2.

At the Overberg Geoscientists Group (OGG) Breakfast Meeting on 6 November 2025, experts Malcolm Lee, Prof. Chris James, and Stuart Dunsmore presented their findings on:

• The causes and impacts of the flood
• Flood risk assessment and mitigation strategies
• Early warning systems to prevent future disasters

Their research combines rainfall analysis, flood simulations, and risk management to strengthen local resilience against future weather events.

Read the full presentation here.