According to the City of Joburg, more people lose their lives in floods than in any other weather-related event – 80 per cent of flood deaths occur in vehicles and most happen when drivers make a single, fatal mistake trying to navigate through floodwaters.
Look out for the following signs to identify possible flash floods:
- Unusual hard rain over several hours
- Steady substantial rain over several days
- Rains in conjunction with a spring thaw
- Water rising rapidly in streams and rivers
The City advised residents to never drive through flooded areas, even if it looks shallow enough to cross.
They have provided the following advice regarding flash floods:
- Never drive or let anyone drive through flash floodwaters. If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
- Never drive into water covering the road. You do not know how deep it is or if the road has been washed away.
- Be cautious, especially at night when visibility is impaired.
When you’re not driving:
- Get to higher ground immediately. You cannot outrun a flash flood.
- Keep out of places that are likely to flood such as ditches or dry stream beds.
- Avoid already flooded areas and high-velocity flow areas.
- Never attempt to run across flooding water when the water is above your ankles.
- Do not walk into or near high water.
- Keep children from drainage ditches and stormwater drains.
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