Brace for a Stormy Weekend: Gauteng and Other Regions Face Severe Weather Alerts

Johannesburg EMS on high alert as SAWS warns of thunderstorms, hail, and heavy rain

South Africans are being urged to batten down the hatches this weekend, as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) warns of severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, strong winds, and hail across several regions. Gauteng, including Johannesburg, is expected to experience particularly wet and windy conditions.

This comes after a week of disruptive weather, with heavy rains, thunder, lightning, and hailstorms already impacting Johannesburg and surrounding areas. Meteorologists say the pattern is set to persist, meaning residents need to prepare for ongoing adverse conditions.

Johannesburg on High Alert

Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) spokesperson Kagiso Phasha confirmed that emergency teams, including specialised water rescue units, are monitoring the situation closely.

“The South African Weather Service has issued a Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms. EMS will remain on high alert to respond to any incidents that may arise,” Phasha said.

Residents are urged to take practical precautions:

• Motorists and motorcyclists should keep headlights on, maintain safe following distances, and avoid driving through flooded areas.

• Pedestrians and cyclists are advised to wear visible clothing and steer clear of flood-prone zones.

• Homebound residents are encouraged to stay indoors while the storm passes.

Social media is already buzzing, with Johannesburg residents sharing photos of puddled streets, falling tree branches, and strong gusts. Many are warning friends and family to stay safe and avoid unnecessary travel.

Storm Warnings Across South Africa

The extreme weather is not limited to Gauteng. SAWS has issued a series of alerts for different provinces:

• Yellow Level 4: Severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, localised flooding, and damaging winds, particularly in roads and low-lying areas.

• Limpopo and Mpumalanga: Expect small hail and strong winds, except in extreme north-eastern Limpopo and far south-west Mpumalanga.

• Free State, south-west North West, central Eastern Cape: Level 2 warning for thunderstorms with heavy rain, flooding risks, and small hail.

• Western Cape coast (Table Bay to Plettenberg Bay): Level 1 alert for damaging winds, affecting sea navigation in the early morning.

Communities in flood-prone areas are already preparing sandbags and clearing stormwater drains, while local authorities are deploying rapid-response teams to help residents should flooding occur.

A Weekend to Take Seriously

Meteorologists warn that this weekend’s storms could bring localized flooding, property damage, and travel disruptions, particularly in low-lying and coastal areas. For Gauteng residents, the combination of heavy rain and high winds could worsen already congested roads.

Emergency services are urging residents to plan ahead, monitor local weather updates, and take safety precautions seriously. Social media and community WhatsApp groups are expected to be crucial in sharing real-time updates and safety tips as the storms unfold.

Stay Safe

While some may treat heavy rain as a minor inconvenience, authorities emphasise that this is a serious weather event. Johannesburg EMS, SAWS, and local municipalities are working together to reduce risks, but residents are reminded that personal vigilance is the first line of defense against storm-related incidents.