Snow, Freezing Weather Expected in Gauteng: Joburg EMS on High Alert

The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) has urged residents to exercise extreme caution as freezing weather is expected to grip Gauteng from May 20. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a warning about plunging temperatures and possible snowfall in high-lying areas.

A cold front that swept over the Western Cape earlier this week is expected to intensify by Tuesday, bringing icy, wet, and windy conditions to Johannesburg and other central and eastern regions. The severe cold snap is forecast to continue until Friday morning, May 23.

According to SAWS, the weather system could lead to widespread temperature drops and hazardous conditions. Snow may fall over higher ground, and freezing levels are expected to drop significantly across the province.

City EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi has warned residents about the dangers of unattended heating devices, such as paraffin stoves, candles, and braziers, which can pose serious fire hazards during the cold front.

“We want to encourage our residents to use all heating devices responsibly and not leave them unattended. This is especially important during these extreme temperatures to avoid fire incidents,” said Mulaudzi.

Emergency services across Johannesburg have been placed on high alert. All 29 fire stations in the city are ready to respond to any incidents that might occur during the cold spell. EMS teams will also coordinate with strategic monitoring units to keep watch across all seven regions of the city.

Residents are advised to contact the Emergency Services Call Centre on 011 375 5911 in case of any life-threatening situation.

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Sourced:IOL