Severe storms and flash floods – here’s what to do
A flash flood is a rapid flooding of a low-lying area.
With the West Rand still reeling from Monday’s severe storms, hail, tornado and reported fatalities, it is safe to say that residents were not prepared for the weather.
With these severe weather conditions there is always the possibility of flash flooding. A flash flood is a rapid flooding of a low-lying area. It may be caused by heavy rain associated with a severe thunderstorm, hurricane or even a tropical storm. Flash floods are distinguished from regular floods by a timescale of less than six hours. You will not always have a warning that these deadly, sudden floods are coming. So, if you live in areas prone to flash floods, plan accordingly to protect your family and property.
Also Read: Hail devastation leaves several roads closed
Keep an eye out for weather warnings, radio announcements and news articles. Only trust warnings from verified sources and do not distribute warnings circulating on WhatsApp and other social media channels that cannot be verified. These warnings cause unnecessary panic and may cause further harm.
Read more: Furry friends need help after West Rand storms
Your home:
• Keep emergency numbers and important information handy. Also keep emergency supplies such as water, canned food, a can opener, battery-operated radio, flashlight and protective clothing ready.
• Keep a first aid kit.
• Turn off all your household electrical devices.
• Lock all doors and windows.
• Leave the area before it’s too late, and get to higher ground.
Should you be outdoors or in your vehicle, do the following:
• Climb to higher ground and stay there.
• Avoid walking through floodwaters – even 15 centimetres deep can sweep you off your feet.
• If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground.
• Never drive through a flooded road or over a low-water bridge as the road may be washed away.
• If you get swept away in the flood waters, try to grab onto anything you can to pull yourself to safety.
• Getting swept away while inside your vehicle can be extremely dangerous. If you are stuck inside your vehicle, roll down the windows and open the doors to allow water into your vehicle. Doing this will equalise the pressure on both sides of the door, allowing you to escape your vehicle.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
