Disaster Management warns of imminent flooding
People should avoid crossing low lying bridges, and swollen streams where water is above the ankle level.
Following consistent downpours experienced across the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) since last night, December 4 and couple of weeks before, the City’s Disaster and Emergency Management Services department (DEMS) would like to make the residents, industrial and business communities to be extra cautious of flooding moreover those in the flood prone and low-lying areas. The ground is becoming saturated and subsequently, flooding is highly subjected.
DEMS in collaboration with South African Weather Services (SAWS) would like to caution residents, drivers and everyone in their own sphere of lives to be on high alert throughout this rainy season. People should avoid crossing low lying bridges, and swollen streams where water is above the ankle level.
Children going to school for the official closure of the schools tomorrow, parents are encouraged to accompany them more over those walking past trenches, crossing rivers, water tunnels, culverts for safety reasons. Open water streams spells danger in such weathers as water levels are high.
Drowning is one other challenge that Emergency Services are experiencing during summer season. Always parents need to be extra cautious, alert and knowledgeable of the where about of their children.
Heavy rain may also result in rivers, low lying bridges, open trenches, furrows and even canals to flood causing damage down streams to areas that may receive no rainfall at all during the flooding event.
It is more advisable to listen to the radio or watch Television stations for warnings and obey the instructions from Disaster Management officials.
DEMS is on high alert for any eventualities that might erupt as a result. Communities affected by flooding or any life-threatening emergencies are advised to call Emergency Call Centre immediately for swift intervention. “Call us in time, we arrive on time & Every second count!”
NOTE:
- In case of emergencies: call our direct line: (011) 458 0911, cell phone 112, or National emergency number
- Ensure that you have the emergency call centre contact numbers readily and clearly displayed for everyone to know and to use.
- Numbers should be saved and easy to access on your telephone or cellular phone.
- Speak clearly on the phone when reporting an emergency.
- Provide the operators with all the necessary details required.
- Do not end the conversation until all questions are answered.
Also Read:
Flash floods – What you need to know
Flash floods – What you need to know
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