Mpumalanga severe weather warning
According to the South African Weather Service heavy rain is expected.
The South African Weather Service released an alerts to the public regarding the possibility of extreme weather conditions expected to affect the central and eastern portions of the country on December 8 and 9.
Areas that are of concern for heavy rain with possible flooding are the extreme southern parts of Limpopo, Gauteng, eastern parts of the Free State, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday.
On Sunday the persistent rainfall will result in more widespread flooding over Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Gauteng as well as the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
Localised flooding of susceptible informal and formal settlements can be expected, with possible closure of major roads crossing low water bridges and minor accidents due to slippery roads due to the persistent rainfall.
Precautionary measures when encountering flooding:
• If possible stay indoors and off the roads, avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above one’s ankles.
• If trapped in a flooding situation whilst in a vehicle, it is preferable to abandon it and climb to higher ground.
• In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level. Switch off electricity at the supply point to the building.
ALSO READ: Eskom scales load shedding back to Stage 1 on Friday
• In rural areas, the safety of livestock can be assured by relocating them to a safe place on higher ground, preferably before the onset of inclement weather.
• In the event of duly authorized officials issuing an order to evacuate; abandon the dwelling without undue delay, unless access is cut off by rising floodwaters.
• NEVER drive on a road that is flooded or obscured by water. One cannot be certain how deep the water is and/or if the road has been eroded or washed away. If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is difficult to identify flood hazards. Listen attentively to the radio or watch TV weather bulletins for warnings and obey the instructions from Disaster Management officials.
