Gauteng residents warned to brace for more severe weather

Johannesburg Emergency Services (EMS) said it has been inundated with fire incident calls amid the heavy rain, adverse weather and a drop in temperatures in the city, with no major incidents reported.

There has been significant rainfall and a drop in temperatures across the country, with a cold chill in the air as winter approaches.

Thunderstorms

On Wednesday, Gauteng residents were warned to brace for severe thunderstorms resulting in heavy downpours and possible flooding in several areas.

Rainy weather and extremely windy conditions continued throughout Wednesday night and the early hours of Thursday morning, with residents urged to take precautions as the adverse weather conditions are expected to continue into the weekend.

The rainy weather conditions and slippery road conditions are likely to cause severe traffic congestion, with motorists advised to be cautious on the road as they travel to work.

ALSO READ: Gauteng residents warned to brace for severe thunderstorms and possible flooding

Incidents

Joburg Emergency Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said they are monitoring all areas for major incidents.

“No major incidents have been reported overnight, and this morning, due to severe thunderstorms, which we have been receiving in most parts of the city of Johannesburg. Residents are still urged to continue to exercise caution and avoid crossing river streams while conducting daily activities.

“Our motorists are also urged to continue to drive safely, extend the safe following distance and avoid crossing flooded roads and low-lying bridges,” Mulaudzi said.

High alert

With another warning for severe thunderstorms on Thursday, they remain on alert for any eventuality that may occur.

“As the city of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services, we still remain on high alert together with our disaster management monitoring teams, our aquatic rescue units, monitoring all seven regions for any emergencies which might occur.”  

Residents of Gauteng can expect cloudy and cool weather conditions with widespread showers and thundershowers.

Winter is coming

With the drop in mercury and winter coming,  Joburg Emergency Services Xolile Khumalo said they have received a high volume of fire incident calls.

“The drop in temperature leads to more residents making use of heating and cooking appliances. Improper usage of heating and cooking appliances may lead to fire incidents. These incidents emanate from overloading, illegal connections, faulty wiring, etc.

“EMS implores the residents of Johannesburg to take extra precautions during this time,” Khumalo said.

Khumalo said EMS Firefighting teams are on high alert and are well prepared for possible eventualities.

“For any emergencies, please call our call centre on (011) 375 5911.”

Severe weather warnings

Meanwhile, the South African Weather Services has warned of severe thunderstorms resulting in heavy downpours and possible flooding in parts of the Free State, North West, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

Very cold weather and possible snow have also been forecast over the south-western highlands of KZN.

The weather service issued several impact-based warnings for Thursday.

It also warned of cold and wet conditions over the central and western parts of KZN, but it’s expected to be very cold in the south-western highlands, where light snowfall is possible.

ALSO READ: Weather alert: Wet conditions across the country and possible snowfall in KZN