As a Level 9 weather warning for severe storms is issued, Gauteng residents are warned to get ready
Residents of Gauteng are advised to get ready for strong storms after a Level 9 warning.
Image: File Doctor Ngcobo/ Independent Newspapers
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Level 9 warning for November 16, 2025, prompting the provincial government to activate its full disaster-response systems, and residents of Gauteng have been advised to prepare for potentially fatal weather conditions.
The Gauteng Provincial Government called on communities to remain vigilant as the province faces the risk of heavy downpours, hail, severe thunderstorms, strong winds and possible flooding.
“The Gauteng Provincial Disaster Management Centre and all emergency services have activated all systems and contingency plans to save lives and avert disasters across the province,” said the government.
Authorities warn that the predicted conditions could lead to significant damage and disruptions.
“The predictions indicate that areas may experience heavy downpours and hail, coupled with severe thunderstorms, strong winds and possible flooding in vulnerable areas,” the provincial government said.
These conditions, it added, “pose an increased risk of flood-related incidents, lightning strikes, and infrastructure damage.”
Officials are strongly advising the public to limit movement and avoid unnecessary travel as the storms approach.
“Residents are warned to stay indoors, if possible, to stay away from metal objects and to try as much as possible to delay travel arrangements,” the government urged.
Communities living in low-lying or flood-prone areas were encouraged to evacuate to safer ground should water levels rise.
The province highlighted a detailed list of safety measures and potential impacts, warning that the extreme weather could cause localised flooding, traffic disruptions, dangerous lightning, hail damage, and even loss of life.
Among the key precautions:
- “Avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams.”
- “Motorists are advised to use headlights, maintain low speeds and avoid flooded roads.”
- “If you are in a low-lying area and at risk of flooding, evacuate to higher ground.”
- “Keep away from power lines.”
Children are urged to stay away from puddles, drains and ditches, which may quickly become hazardous during heavy rain.
The province also cautioned that severe thunderstorms could bring heavy downpours that may lead to localised flooding, large amounts of small hail, damaging winds and excessive lightning, as well as danger to life caused by fast-flowing streams and rivers.
With major roads at risk of flooding and visibility expected to deteriorate, motorists and pedestrians have been asked to remain extra cautious.
“If trapped in a vehicle during flooding, abandon the vehicle and move to higher ground,” the government advised.
Residents who observe potential flooding or areas at immediate risk are encouraged to report them to their local municipal disaster management centre.
As the province braces for severe weather, authorities say their primary focus remains clear: safeguarding lives.
IOL News