Urgent: Another warning of severe thunderstorms

The weather service states that severe thunderstorms and extreme heat is expected in most parts of the province.

WeatherSA predicts the storm to possibly last until 11pm.

Last week’s storms caused destruction and chaos on the roads and in communities.

Read: More rain, hail and possible flash floods predicted

Motorists are urged to be careful and avoid low-lying areas where it is known to flood.

Avoid driving at all if possible.

William Ntladi, spokesman for the Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) says it is of great importance that different communities around the Ekurhuleni Metro and country at large be made aware of the dangers associated with flash flood water during severe thunderstorms accompanied by heavy downpours.

Read: WARNING: Severe thunderstorm to hit town

The DEMS is on high alert for any eventualities subsequent to flooding.

The department and WeatherSA share some precautions residents should take:

• If outdoors seek shelter immediately but do not seek shelter under a tree, under telephone and/or power lines, on hilltops, in isolated sheds, under unprotected gazebos or picnic shelters.

• If there is a group of low trees separate from high trees, you can hide under the low trees.
If the tree is alone or higher than the others stay away from it.

• Avoid being near metal objects such as fences, golf carts, telephone or power lines and steel structures such as pylons and windmills.
Do not hold any metal object, use any electrical appliance, use the telephone or take a bath or shower.

• Do not play sport during thunderstorms.
Golfers and fishermen are at high risk.

• If possible stay indoors, clear of windows, shelter pets and cover vehicles as well as disconnect electrical appliances.

• Find shelter in a building or vehicle.

• Close curtains and windows if the glass should break, the curtain will protect you against flying pieces.

• When walking, do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
Remember that it takes only 15cm of rushing water to knock an adult off his or her feet.

• Do not ignore the barricades.

• If flooding begins in your area, go to higher ground immediately.

• Do not drive through standing water on roads or in parking lots.

• The average automobile can be swept off the road in 5cm of moving water and roads covered by water are prone to collapse.
Attempting to drive through water also may stall your engine, with the potential to cause irreparable damage if you try to restart the engine.
If you come upon a flooded street, take an alternate route.

• If your vehicle stalls, get out immediately and go to higher ground.

Here are the emergency numbers to call in the event of an emergency:

The DEMS emergency number: 011 458 0911
National emergency number: 10177
Cellphone emergency number: 112