More flooding expected today
JOBURG – Steady rain causes flooding in parts of Joburg.
The SA Weather Service has issued a warning of further flooding in Gauteng on 8 January.
Watch: 08 Jan: Heavy rain leading to localised flooding is expected in GAU except in the south.
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) January 7, 2017
Motorists had to find alternative routes or otherwise brave a drive through high water levels on Witkoppen Road, after it was flooded on 7 January.
@GautengProvince please note flooding at Witkoppen, @SANRAL_za ^TK https://t.co/hAAFHhNZr8
— City of Joburg (@CityofJoburgZA) January 7, 2017
Rivers around Joburg rose to dangerous levels after rain fell steadily for most of the day.
Suburban Control Centre posted a video of the flooding on Witkoppen Road on its Facebook page. View the video here.
Christie Lauwrens also posted a video of a gushing stream in the greenbelt near Karee Street in Randpark Ridge, on The Community of Randpark Ridge Facebook page. View the video here.
The SA Weather Service had issued a warning regarding flooding that morning.
Warning: 07 Jan: Heavy rain leading to localised flooding is observed in places over GAU, E NW, E FS, N KZN and highveld of MPU.
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) January 7, 2017
Police have issued the following precautions to be taken during flooding:
• Avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above ankle height.
• Be careful not to stand on an overhanging bank.
• Before entering the water, check for the presence and strength of a current.
• If caught in a fast river current, float feet first in order to absorb any impact with the feet and legs, thus protecting the head and body from serious injury.
• In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level and switch off electricity at the supply point to the building.
• If evacuation is recommended, residents must heed the call.
• In rural areas, animals should be protected or relocated to a safe place on higher ground.
• Listen to the radio or TV for warnings and obey the instructions of emergency personnel and disaster management officers.
• Take special care of children; keep them away from flooded streams and rivers during stormy conditions.
• If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually.
• Avoid driving on a road that is totally covered by water. If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground and be cautious especially at night when it is harder to recognise flood dangers.
