It has been a cold and at some points cloudy week in Germiston with the South African Weather Service today warning residents to prepare for heavy rain and potential flooding.
In addition to the warning of heavy rains, possible flooding and poor visibility over Gauteng, the service warned of damaging winds and even veld fires.
ALSO READ: Take precautions in the cold
The warnings in more detail:
Damaging Winds:
Strong winds are expected in places over Gauteng, these winds are expected to be at their strongest in the afternoon.
Heavy rain:
Heavy rain may be experienced in parts of Gauteng this morning.
Flooding:
Localised road flooding may be possible due to potential heavy rains in Gauteng, with special focus on the northern parts of Tshwane including the Hammanskraal area spreading very slowly south to the Cullinan area.
Veld Fire Conditions:
Veld fires may be experienced in parts of Gauteng due to the dryness of the season.
People living in informal settlements have been urged to be careful when keeping warm, while pet owners are urged to ensure their animals have appropriate shelter during this time.
ALSO READ: Wise winter warming
Some simple tips on how to stay warm:
- Warm yourself first – It’s easier to change your body temperature than room temperature, not to mention more eco-friendly. Instead of turning up the heat, put on another layer of clothing.
- Wear a hat – Your mom may have said that you lose 80 per cent of your body heat through your head, but that’s not actually true. If you’re otherwise clothed, you’ll lose heat from any surface that’s exposed. So put on your hat, even if you’re inside.
- Switch between hot and cold water in the shower – Hot showers immediately warm you up, but cold showers improve blood circulation between your skin and organs, they are also correlated with a stronger immune system.
Reminder – The community can call the following emergency numbers for assistance:
- 10177 (toll free line)
- 112 (cellphone)
- 011 458-0911 (Life Threatening Emergency Line)
- 086 054 3000 (Services Emergency Line)
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Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.zaor Leigh Hodgson (News Editor) leighh@caxton.co.za or Kgotsofalang Mashilo (journalist) kgotsofalangm@caxton.co.za
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