The roads agency’s Mosa Makhalima said most lives were lost during rains than in any other weather-related event.
“Flooding can be caused by heavy rainfall and long periods of rain,” she added.
She said flash floods were often instant and could occur without warning.
Makhalima advised motorists not to drive through flooded areas, or into water covered roads.
She further advised residents to keep stormwater drains clean to allow free water flow.
“Motorists are also advised to drive cautiously and avoid speed by all means. Roads are slippery during rains because of the oil emanating from leaking cars and spillages. Most traffic lights are also knocked down by speeding and reckless drivers during rains, putting the lives of innocent people at risk,” said Makhalima.
To ensure that traffic lights remain operational despite adverse conditions, Makhalima said the agency had embarked on numerous initiatives, such as converting traffic lights located on busy main roads to solar and uninterrupted power supply, replacing cables systematically on a continuous cycle, and also decentralising region based technicians closer to customers.
Details: City of Joburg’s call centre 0860JOBURG (562874).
