Keep safe during anticipated heavy rains

Disruptive rain is expected in Gauteng, including the City of Ekurhuleni over the weekend.

According to the South African Weather Services (SAWS), the prolonged rainfall is anticipated to cause large-scale flooding moreover in low-lying areas.

Following the SAWS weather forecast, DEMS will remain on high alert. Swift-water rescue teams across 29 fire stations across the City will be able to respond to eventualities emanating due to heavy downpours.

Flooding and drownings are imminent during such weather conditions. Low-lying residential areas, either formal or informal areas, can be flooded by fast-flowing streams. Some communities might be temporarily inaccessible or cut off.

The City’s DEMS department would like to encourage the public to stay indoors and off the roads as much as possible during this time. Also, avoid crossing water streams using pipelines.

The surface of the pipelines is slippery, and falling into the swollen streams can result in drowning. Pedestrians should avoid crossing over the flooded bridges where water is above the ankle level.

The road surfaces are wet and slippery in such weather conditions. Motorists are urged to make sure that their vehicles are roadworthy.

Tyres should be in accordance with Road Traffic Act regulations (full threaded tyres), windshield wipers fully functional, all lights operational (headlamps, taillights, brake-lights including both hazards and indicator lights).
Keep a good following distance and an appropriate speed limit.

If trapped in the vehicle during flooding, abandon it and move to the higher grounds.

In formal dwellings, most of the flooding occurs because of a lack of water draining dispenses around the perimeter wall fences.

During heavy downpours, rainwater cannot flow out of the yards and end up getting to the level of the doors, then flow into the houses.

Secondary to that is the blockage of stormwater draining systems caused by debris littered around haphazardly.
In case of an emergency, call the City’s call centre. The numbers are 011 458 0911 or 10177 or 112.