Following the heavy rainfall experienced in most parts of the province, the Ekurhuleni metro’s Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) is on high alert.
The South African Weather Services (SAWS) is anticipating road flooding in some parts of Gauteng during this time because of persistent rainfall experienced since the beginning of the week.
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According to DEMS district manager media liaison William Ntladi, DEMS shares the same sentiments as anticipated by SAWS to the residents and motorists around Ekurhuleni.
“It has been raining for the past week persistently and roads across the metro are slippery and flooding is eminent.
“Motorists are advised to be on high alert while driving.
“Some roads have potholes filled with rain water and are very difficult to identify.
“Deep and large potholes may and can lead to fatal crashes.
“Keeping good following distances and adhere to speed limits, it can save lives.
“Drivers should check their vehicles’ tyres, wipers and lights before travelling to prevent accidents from happening.
“By so doing, lives could be saved.
“Communities in the low-laying areas are as well advised to be on high alert.
“The ground is saturated and any drizzles experienced may result in flooding.
“The tendency of crossing water streams using an inappropriate route such as water pipes erected across those streams is a dangerous practice which could lead to drowning.
“All 29 fire stations’ firefighters and specialised rescue teams around the metro are ready to respond to any eventualities related to flooding.
“Monitoring and listening to weather reports from different media platforms can be lifesaving.”
DEMS can be contacted on:
• 011 458 0911 (Life-threatening Call Centre number)
• 10177 (National Toll-free number)
• 112 (International Toll-free Cellphone Emergency number)
