- The Tshwane and Ekurhuleni metropolitan areas have warned residents to stay vigilant amid heavy rain and flooding.
- The SA Weather Service issued a warning for heavy rain in Gauteng.
- Meteorologist Luthando Masimini told News24 that inclement weather in the province is unlikely to cause deaths or other serious incidents.
Gauteng emergency services issued warnings on Thursday amid heavy rain that caused flooding in parts of the province.
Tshwane Emergency Services and Metropolitan Police responded to two incidents in which vehicles were submerged under low bridges at Pretoria North and Steve Biko Road.
Tshwane Deputy Director of Emergency Services Charles Mabaso said there were no casualties.
It added that the metropolitan police were notified about the incidents.
“Motorists are advised to use caution in those areas, and life-threatening incidents should be reported to the Tshwane emergency services,” Mabaso said, adding that they were on high alert in known hotspots.
The Ekurhuleni Municipality warned motorists and residents living in low-lying areas that they were at higher risk of being affected by flooding.
A vehicle plunges underwater amid heavy flooding in Gauteng.
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Emergency medical services spokesman William Nthladi said: “Residents in low-lying areas, flood lines near rivers and streams are advised to remain vigilant, pedestrians are advised to use appropriate routes and bridges, including motorists. Motorists should maintain a good following distance.” [and] proper speed. Wet road surfaces spell danger.”
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The SA Weather Service for Gauteng has issued a Level 2 Yellow Warning.
On Thursday, meteorologist Luthando Masimini told News24 that two meters would experience heavy rain, which could lead to flooding.
“Chances of heavy rain are for tonight [Thursday] and tomorrow [Friday]. There is no warning for the weekend as heavy rain is not expected.
A vehicle almost completely submerged after heavy flooding in Gauteng.
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“All of Gauteng has a good chance of flooding [this evening]and tomorrow it will be more concentrated in Tshwane and parts of Ekurhuleni,” he said.
Masimini added that the level two yellow warning implied a high probability of minor impact, meaning there would be isolated flooding incidents.
He said residents in informal settlements were at higher risk of flooding during this period, also warning motorists not to speed.
“Motorists should be careful with their speed and keep a following distance. They should also be on the lookout for notices of road closures due to accidents,” added Masimini.
