Foreign Office warns 'stay away' from UK tourist hotspot as 'attacks are likely'

The Foreign Office is warning Brits of the risk of "lone actors" and terrorists carrying out attacks in South Africa.

By Jon King, News Reporter

A police cordon in Cape Town.

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for South Africa. (Image: Getty)

Brits have been warned over travelling to South Africa amid terror and severe weather threats.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warned people already in South Africa to be mindful as "terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks" in the country.

The Foreign Office said: "The main threat is from individuals who may have been inspired by terrorist groups, including Daesh, and who may carry out ‘lone actor’ attacks.

"Attacks could be indiscriminate and could target public spaces and places visited by foreigners, such as tourist sites, shopping centres, high profile events and crowded places.

"Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities."

Cars on a flooded road in the Tokai suburb of Cape Town, South Africa

Cars on a flooded road in the Tokai suburb of Cape Town, South Africa. (Image: Getty)

Technicians mend broken electricity lines above homes damaged by storm winds in the Wynberg district of Cape Town

Technicians mend broken electricity lines above homes damaged by storm winds in the Wynberg district. (Image: Getty)

That warning was coupled with another issued after South Africa's weather service, SAWS, issued a level eight "disruptive rain" warning for Thursday (July 11) in Cape Town, Drakenstein and Stellenbosch.

FCDO said: "Following heavy rains, there is a risk of localised flooding. Rain is forecast to continue until July 12, with possible further disruption thereafter."

The FCDO added: "If you are in Cape Town and affected by adverse weather conditions, reconsider whether your journey is necessary.

"Always check local media before your journey. Stay away from rivers where possible and do not drive through large pools of water."

In the first three months of this year, more than 125,000 Brits visited South Africa, a five percent increase on the same period in 2023.

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