Follow these tips to navigate and avoid flooded roads

The South African Weather Service issued warnings of heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms in parts of Johannesburg, which have caused severe flooding.

Here are some tips that ER24 urges all the members of the public to note:

• Keep an eye out for weather warnings. Only trust verified and credible sources. Do not immediately believe messages circulating on social media as this cause unnecessary panicking.
• If you are caught in a heavy storm, try and find cover. Avoid being in open spaces or near large trees as the chances of getting struck by lightning will increase.

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• Visibility will be decreased during heavy rains, and this will affect your ability to see other vehicles on the road as well as pedestrians. Increase your following distance and decrease your speed.
• Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy, and your windscreen wipers are in perfect condition.
• Should you decide to stop your journey rather stop at a filling station or covered area. Avoid stopping on the side of the road/highway or under bridges.
• Do not attempt to cross the road or surface of flooded areas. Seek an alternative route.
• If you are trapped in your vehicle during a flash flood, rather attempt and abandon your vehicle to try and get to higher ground.
• If you get swept away while in the floodwaters, try to grab onto anything so you can to pull yourself to safety.
• If flooding occurs at your home, ensure that all your electrical devices are switched off at the main distribution board.
• Have a first-aid kit nearby and keep emergency numbers at hand.

ALSO READ: JRA urges residents to be extra cautious during flash floods