The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) recently urged people to be careful on the roads during the rainy season.
Recent heavy rains resulted in flooding, which led to road closures to ensure safety.
“More lives are lost during floods than in any other weather-related event and in areas where strong water build-up occurs, drowning is the leading cause of death, with 80 percent of deaths occurring from vehicle incumbents,” said Mr Skhumbuzo Macozoma, the managing director of the JRA.
He said this often happens when motorists underestimate the dangers of navigating through flood waters, especially at low-lying bridges where as little as 30 centimetres of water is enough to float most vehicles, causing the driver to lose control.
Pedestrians are also at risk of being washed away. People are advised to use a pole or stick to test the ground and water level before traversing any flooded areas.
The JRA also said floodwater is unsafe and can carry sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, factories and storage buildings, which can become a health hazard.
The JRA recommended the following tips for motorists:
- Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas even if the water looks shallow enough to cross.
- If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
- Never drive into water that covers the road. You do not know how deep it is, or whether the road underneath has been washed away Reduce speed significantly to avoid vehicle floating.
- Look out for flooding on highway dips and bridges, especially low-lying bridges.
- Exercise caution, especially at night when visibility is poor.
Tips for pedestrians:
- If a flash-flood is likely, move to higher ground immediately. You cannot outrun a flash-flood.
- Keep away from places that are likely to flood, such as ditches or dry stream beds.
- Avoid areas that are flooded.
- Avoid areas where water is flowing rapidly, especially high velocity flow areas.
- Never attempt to run across flooding water if the water level is above your ankles.
- Do not walk into, or near, high water.
- Keep children away from playing in drainage ditches and storm water drains.
The JRA also encouraged people to take ownership of their streets and storm water drainage systems.
Potholes, damaged or missing road signs and faulty traffic lights must be reported immediately. Residents should refrain from dumping litter into the storm water system and drains.
Report flash flood-related incidents to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) or SAPS. Call the City of Johannesburg’s call centre number on 0860 562 874.
