Wet Wednesday predicted across Rand West City

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive rainfall from 1pm on Wednesday, 24 March into Thursday morning.

They stated that an upper air system is expected to affect Gauteng which may result in heavy rainfall, especially over the central and southern parts of Gauteng. Although rain is possible in places in the morning, the most significant rainfall is expected from Wednesday evening into Thursday morning.

Models are indicating between 25 and 45mm of rain, and this may lead to localised flooding.

The warning is issued for the following areas:

• City of Johannesburg
• Ekurhuleni
• Emfuleni
• Merafong City
• Midvaal
• Mogale City
• Rand West City

This could mean that localised flooding of susceptible roads, informal settlements and low-lying bridges can be expected.

The SAWS added that the rainy conditions may result in difficult driving conditions, increased travel times and minor vehicle accidents.

Some safety tips:

• If possible, stay indoors and off the roads.
• Avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where the water level is above your ankles.
• If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon it and climb to higher ground.
• In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level.