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Johannesburg on Storm Watch: Emergency Services Brace as Gauteng Faces Days of Rain
Gauteng Buckles Up for a Wet Week as Joburg Stays on Flood Alert
Rain has finally arrived in Gauteng, but instead of celebration, there’s a growing sense of caution in the air.
After a weekend of relentless showers, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned residents to prepare for more heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and possible flooding in the coming days. In response, Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) says its teams are now on full high alert.
Slippery Roads and Rising Water: EMS Urges Caution
“It’s raining in most parts of the city,” confirmed EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi. He warned that wet and slippery roads are already creating dangerous conditions.
Motorists are advised to slow down, keep a safe following distance, and avoid bridges or low-lying roads that could be flooded.
The city’s Aquatic Rescue Unit, a specialised team trained for water emergencies, is now on standby should residents become trapped by rising water levels.
For emergencies, residents have been urged to contact the Johannesburg Emergency Services Command Centre at (011) 375-5911.
Storm Warnings Across Multiple Provinces
While Gauteng braces for more showers and thundershowers, SAWS has extended warnings beyond the province signalling nationwide instability as spring swings between warm and icy.
Here’s what to expect:
Weather Alerts Issued by SAWS:
| Region | Alert Level | Weather Threat |
|---|---|---|
| Central & Northern KwaZulu-Natal | Yellow Level 4 | Severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, flooding, lightning, hail |
| Eastern Free State | Yellow Level 2 | Localised flooding, property damage |
| Southern KwaZulu-Natal | Yellow Level 2 | Disruptive rainfall, slippery roads, visibility hazards |
| Eastern Cape Interior | Very Cold Conditions | Icy weather expected despite it being spring |
Residents React: ‘Only in South Africa Can Spring Feel Like Winter’
On social media, Gauteng residents have been posting everything from flooded driveways to mist-covered skylines, with one user joking:
“One minute I’m in shorts, the next I’m lighting the heater. Spring in Gauteng is a scam.”
But beyond the humour, many are sharing storm safety tips, reminding neighbours not to risk crossing flooded roads or to leave pets and children unsupervised near streams or drains.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed
As rainfall continues, authorities stress one thing: Don’t underestimate fast-moving water. It only takes a few centimetres of current to sweep away a vehicle or trap someone on foot.
Whether you’re a commuter, a parent, or simply trying to keep the lights on, this week calls for vigilance.
Keep those umbrellas handy, charge your devices, and most importantly: when in doubt, don’t risk it.
{Source: The Citizen}
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