Johannesburg - Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), has issued a warning following flooding in some areas of the country caused by continuing rains in the country’s central and eastern regions.
“Gauteng province has experienced heavy downpours accompanied by thunderstorms, hail, strong winds and lightning. The disruptive rainfall from the evening of December 8th, 2022, is continuing throughout Gauteng and other provinces,” read a departmental statement.
Cogta said that the rains are affecting various communities negatively, leading to the destruction of infrastructure and private property. Gauteng, specifically in and around Soweto, is witnessing disruptive flooding.
“The minister urges the public to be extra vigilant and exercise caution, especially in areas prone to flooding. The expected rainfall will make matters worse as the summer rains continue. The National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) is in contact with provincial and local disaster management centres on the ground to monitor the situation and give support. As a result of these adverse weather patterns, the Disaster Management teams from across all spheres of government will continue to be on standby to provide assistance where required,” added the statement.
The department also offered safety tips, which include:
- People living in low-lying areas must take special care during storms, as sudden floods might affect them. They should monitor the rising water levels and evacuate the areas to a safer place or a higher spot when the water level rises.
- Do not cross flooded roads or bridges; use other routes.
- Avoid crossing low-lying bridges, streams, and rivers.
- Never try to walk, swim, or drive in swift-flowing water. Even if the water is 15cm deep, it can sweep you off your feet.
- Motorists must be very careful and avoid driving through flooded areas.
- Drive to and park in safer areas.
- The public must monitor weather alerts on radio and television.
- The public should contact their municipal disaster management centres or the nearest police station, or call the national emergency numbers (112, 10177, or 107) when faced with threats.
- Do not try to drive over a low-water bridge if water is flowing strongly across it and the ground is not visible.
- Teach your children about the dangers of floods.
- Keep your important documents in a water-resistant container.
- Keep your cellphone in close proximity to you and have emergency numbers at hand.
- Be especially vigilant at night. It is harder to recognise potentially deadly road hazards.
- Do not camp or park your car along rivers or washes, especially during heavy rains or thunderstorms.
- If you are on foot, be aware that slow-moving water can also be dangerous during flood conditions. If you come upon moving water, do not walk into it.
- Where possible, communities are encouraged to try to avoid contact with any flood waters. The water may be contaminated with raw sewage, oil, or other dangerous substances and may also be charged with electricity from fallen power lines.
The Star