Heavy rainfall disrupts Gauteng: EMS on high alert

Gauteng faces significant weather challenges as heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms continue to affect the province. Emergency Management Services (EMS) in the region have ramped up efforts to address potential incidents, including flash flooding, with the South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecasting additional storms throughout the week.

Johannesburg braces for heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms

The City of Johannesburg issued an Orange Level 5 warning for severe thunderstorms on Monday, with EMS deploying Disaster Management Monitoring teams to all seven regions. These teams are prioritising vulnerable communities, including informal settlements prone to flooding.

EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi assured residents that their resources remain fully operational.

“We are ready to respond to any emergencies, and residents are urged to call the Emergency Services Call Centre at 011 375 5911 for any life-threatening situations,” Mulaudzi stated.

The city has also urged drivers to exercise extreme caution, advising them to avoid flooded roads, low-lying bridges, and river streams.

Precautions for Residents and Drivers

With thunderstorms predicted across Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and the North West, SAWS warns of heavy rain, damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning. As The South African previously reported, Santam Head of Personal Underwriting, Marius Kemp, emphasised the importance of driver safety during severe weather.

Drivers should reduce speed, increase their following distance, and monitor local radio stations for weather and traffic updates. Furthermore, he recommended avoiding flood-prone areas and ensuring headlights are on without using the bright setting.

For residents in affected areas, EMS teams have heightened their focus on disaster readiness, particularly in communities along riverbanks or low-lying regions. The Johannesburg Aquatic Rescue Unit remains on standby to assist with any water-related emergencies.

Weather Experts Warn of Ongoing Disruptions

SAWS has confirmed that thunderstorms will persist across Gauteng for the rest of the week, potentially escalating disruptions in affected areas. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, heed warnings, and prepare for sudden weather changes.

As Gauteng grapples with these challenging conditions, the community’s preparedness and adherence to safety guidelines remain critical.

What measures do you think residents and local authorities can take to manage severe weather conditions in the future better?

Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.

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