Gauteng weather: Whole province ‘on alert’ for DISRUPTIVE rainfall

The province of Gauteng has been slapped with a blanket Level 2 weather warning of disruptive rainfall for Saturday.

GAUTENG WEATHER: RAINY WEEKEND

According to SA Weather Service (SAWS), a level 2 warning for disruptive rain was been issued for several areas including Gauteng. 

The rain is expected to start around midday on Saturday.

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 It furthermore warned that localised flooding of susceptible roads and low-lying bridges could be expected.

“Difficult driving conditions due to wet roads or pooling of water on roads with possible minor vehicle accidents are expected as well as localised flooding in informal settlements.”

SAWS

THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED

The following areas will be affected by the strong winds: 

• City of Johannesburg / Johannesburg
• City of Tshwane / Pretoria
• Moses Kotane / Pilanesberg
• Tswaing / Ottosdal
• Ventersdorp/Tlokwe
• Ekurhuleni / Kempton park
• Kgetlengrivier / Koster
• Local Municipality of Madibeng / Hartebeespoort

The SAWS warned that damage to formal/informal settlements and some structural damage are possible. 

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“If possible stay indoors and off the roads, avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above your ankles.”

“If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon it and climb to higher ground. In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level. Switch off electricity at the supply point to the building. Be especially cautious at night.” 

SAWS 

TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN DRIVING

All road users are requested to take extra caution:

• Reduce speed
• Switch on your headlights
• Pedestrians should be careful when crossing the road
• Avoid crossing rivers and streams where water is above your ankles

Households were urged to open/make pathways to allow water to flow out of their yards.