Local newsNews
Flash floods warning
South African Weather Services (SAWS) has issued a flash flood warning due to the heavy rain expected in the next 24 hours around the Gauteng province. Localised flooding is anticipated in different areas around the province.
As heavy rain is anticipated, rivers, canals and streams might experience a high volume of water which might result in flash floods.
The Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services Department (DEMS) would also like to caution the residents around the city be on high alert for such.
The low lying areas are always subjected to flooding and people are advised to take extra precautions as flash floods are prominent.
Residents are advised to take the following safety tips into account:
- Avoid crossing swollen water streams, canals and flooded rivers.
- Motorists should avoid flooded subways.
- If trapped in flooding while in the vehicle, abandon it and climb to higher ground.
- If river bridges are covered by flooding water, turn back and use alternative routes. Never drive over a bridge covered by flooding water, you do not know how deep it is or if the road has been washed away.
- During the night, flooded areas are not clearly seen, be vigilant.
- Those in the low lying areas can excavate canals that divert floods away from homes.
- Use sand bags/sacks to channel flash floods away from homes.
