Brace yourself, Jozi: severe thunderstorms expected this afternoon
The weather service warns of Level 4 impact which includes a threat to life from fast-flowing water and streams, flooding of informal settlements, roads and bridges and fallen trees.
The South African Weather Service has released a weather warning for severe thunderstorms from 14:00 to 23:00 this evening.
Read more: Massive hailstorm causes havoc in Sunninghill
“With heavy downpours leading to localised flooding of susceptible roads and localised damage to infrastructure is expected over Gauteng and other localised areas,” said the weather service.
Some areas may receive as much as 40 to 50mm of rain in the ‘first significant rainfall of the season.’
Residents are warned to avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above the ankle. In buildings, the weather service advises that valuables are moved to a safe place higher than potential flood levels.
Residents are urged to stay indoors if possible and off the roads.
“If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon it and climb to higher ground.”
Also read: Recent heavy rains help wash away oil that recently spilt into Lonehill Dam from storm water
The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) said it was on high alert and asked road users to exercise caution:
• Avoid low-lying bridges during flooding.
• Only cross a river at safe crossing points when it is safe to do so.
• Keep out of open channels and rivers.
• Never attempt to drive or run across flooding water.
• Never underestimate flooded roads.
• Adhere to road and bridge closures.
Report any incidents of flooded roads, blocked stormwater channels, fallen trees and any unsafe road infrastructure:
JRA emergency contacts
Region Standby Contact Depot Manager Contact
• A 060 960 0764 072 609 3348
• B 082 556 1307 083 220 9956
• C 082 555 2316 0606772573
• D 060 983 8322 071 219 9875
• E 082 449 7219 082 561 4878
• F 060 960 0763 082 093 6804/067 160 7478
• G 063 026 5999 072 477 2524
Motorways 061 064 2721 / 082 520 7809
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