Heavy rain over Lowveld, more expected

The South Africa Weather Service (SAWS) has released another alert for disruptive rains over eastern Mpumalanga through this afternoon, January 6, and containing late into the evening.

Heavy rains are expected over Sabie, Bushbuckridge, Barberton and Mbombela.

SAWS has predicted an excess of 40mm of rainfall over eastern Mpumalanga, which could lead to flooding overnight.

Also Read: Mpumalanga emergency services on high alert for possible localised flooding

The weather service has predicted the impact of the disruptive rain will include flooding of roads and settlements (formal and informal), mudslides and rockfalls, and danger to life, especially for those living near streams and rivers.

Other impacts could include major disruptions to traffic flow due to waterlogged roads, poor driving conditions and possible damage to low-lying roads and bridges.

The warning has urged people to stay indoors where possible and to avoid crossing rivers and streams where the water level rises above the ankles.

It went on to advise the public that if they are trapped in a vehicle during a flood, they should abandon it and climb to higher ground.

Residents from across the Lowveld have been reporting rainfall levels in Mbombela on a local WhatsApp group, Lowveld Rainfall. As of this morning, 80mm to 107mm of rainfall has been reported.

Those living in the Plaston area reported between 40mm and 80mm of rainfall, with parts of White River receiving between 45mm and 50mm.

Meanwhile, the Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison (DCSSL) has also urged motorists to exercise due diligence and caution on the roads.

A statement by the DCSSL’s spokesperson, Moeti Mmusi, said the department appealed to drivers to avoid crossing low-lying bridges if they are unsure whether it is safe to do so.

“They are also encouraged to keep their headlights on, reduce speeding, and increase their following distances,” said Mmusi.

He said drivers are also advised to observe the following basic safety principles:
• Check your tyre pressure and windscreen defects to avoid distraction while driving.
• Look out for pedestrians who can at times be a source of danger to motorists.
• In the event of a breakdown, make sure you are safe before alerting from the vehicle.
• Avoid using cellphones while driving, unless you are using a hands-free kit.
• Be vigilant enough around other vehicles in order to identify a potential source of danger.

“On the other hand, our traffic officers remain on high alert during this weekend, as many people are expected to return to work and inland schools are also opening on Monday,” Mmusi said.

“People should generally expect some delays, and that is why tolerance and patience are required from motorists.”