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Joburg emergency on high alert as thunderstorms hit Gauteng

The adverse weather conditions are expected to cause severe traffic congestions with motorists urged to be cautious on the wet and slippery roads.

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By Faizel Patel

Johannesburg Emergency Service (EMS) are on high alert throughout the city due to severe thunderstorms and persistent rain.

Regional weather forecaster Gauteng Weather said the province will experience severe thunderstorms resulting in heavy downpours and possible flooding in several areas on Wednesday.

The adverse weather conditions are expected to cause severe traffic congestion, with motorists urged to be cautious on the wet and slippery roads.

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High alert

Johannesburg Emergency Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said they are on alert for any incidents that may occur.

“The South African weather service has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms in most parts of the city of Johannesburg, with strong winds. Motorists are urged to exercise caution while driving, extend a safe following distance, and avoid crossing roads which might be flooded and low-lying bridges which might be flooded.

“From our side, as the city of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services, we remain on high alert, monitoring all seven regions of the city for any emergencies together with our aquatic rescue units, all our disaster management, monitoring teams in all seven regions of the city residents are aged to call 011 375 5911 for any life-threatening emergencies,” Mulaudzi said.

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

Flooding

In March, heavy rains wreaked havoc, flooding parts of Johannesburg.

Floodwaters affected several areas, including Randpark Ridge, Newlands, Strubens Valley, Weltevredenpark, Jukskei Park and Witkoppen Road.

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Weather warnings

Meanwhile, the South African Weather Services (Saws) has warned that a cut-off low (COL) system is expected to make landfall over the western interior of South Africa on Wednesday, 23 April 2025.

This weather pattern is expected to move slowly eastwards and is likely to exit the country by Saturday.

The weather service also warned of severe thunderstorms associated with flooding of roads and settlements, as well as damage or loss of infrastructure, property, vehicles, livelihoods, and livestock, especially over the Free State and North West.

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ALSO READ: SA Weather Service warns of below average rainfall raising concerns of water availability

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