The South African Weather Services on Wednesday warned residents to brace for severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.
As the rain continues across Gauteng, Johannesburg Emergency Services will be on high alert for any eventualities that may occur.
The South African Weather Services (Saws) on Wednesday warned residents to brace for severe thunderstorms in parts of North West, Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal. Hot and uncomfortable conditions are also expected in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).
High alert
This will likely result in extremely wet road conditions, causing severe traffic congestion.
Joburg Emergency Services (EMS) spokesperson Xolile Khumalo has urged motorists to take precautions.
“It is raining in most parts of Johannesburg. EMS would like to caution all road users to pay extra attention when driving. drive safely during this time. Please ensure that you do not speed or overtake”.
Khumalo also cautions residents to take care during the adverse weather conditions.
“We also caution residents not to drive through flooded roads and low-lying bridges. This message also goes out to residents that have built their homes near river banks to ensure that they exercise caution during this time”.
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Tshwane
City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department spokesperson Lindsay Mnguni also urged motorists and residents to take precautions.
“The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department will continue to monitor the weather reports and remain on high alert throughout the city for any related emergencies to protect life and property.
Residents are strongly urged and encouraged to stay informed and monitor short-term weather forecasts and any warnings or alerts issued by the South African Weather Service and other credible sources, and to immediately follow the recommended safety tips,”Mnguni said.
Warnings
Meanwhile, the rest of South Africa faces severe weather on Thursday.
The weather service issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms over North West, Gauteng, northern Free State, Mpumalanga Highveld, extreme southern parts of Limpopo as well as along the coast and adjacent interior of KwaZulu-Natal.
Heavy downpours leading to localised flooding in formal and informal settlements, low-lying areas, bridges, and roads are expected, as well as damage to property and infrastructure.
Advisories
Hot and uncomfortable conditions are expected over the north-eastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
Gauteng:
Residents of Gauteng can expect morning fog in places, otherwise it will be partly cloudy and cool to warm, with scattered showers and thundershowers.
The region’s expected UVB sunburn index is “high”. Residents should take the necessary precautions against prolonged sun exposure.
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