By Lindsay Zwelithini Mnguni
Acting Public Information and Liaison officer
The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department continues to monitor the adverse weather conditions and is calling on communities to remain alert following a Yellow Level 4 warning issued for Monday, 17 February 2025, for disruptive rain over most parts of Gauteng, including Tshwane.
The warning was issued by the South African Weather Service on Monday, 17 February 2025, and the inclement weather is expected persist until tomorrow, Tuesday, 18 February 2025.
The impact of severe disruptive rain may include the following:
•Localised flooding, especially of susceptible low-lying areas, informal settlements and susceptible roads.
•Potential mudslides, rockfalls and soil erosion, which could further jeopardise the safety of residents.
•Severe lightning strikes which may result in house or other structural fires.
•Disruptions to traffic due to major roads being flooded.
•Minor to major vehicle accidents due to poor driving visibility and slippery road conditions.
•Localised service disruptions due to power failures and other damage to infrastructure.
•Some communities may temporarily not be accessible or cut off.
•Danger to life due to fast flowing streams and rivers.
We call on communities to observe the following safety measures:
•If possible, stay indoors and away from metal objects which may be hit by lightning. Avoid outdoor activities such as fishing or playing golf in the rain as the fishing rods and golf clubs may attract lightning.
•Do not seek shelter under isolated trees or tall objects if there is a thunderstorm.
•Motorists and pedestrians should be extra cautious where roads are slippery and/or visibility is affected.
•Move to higher ground if rising water levels are observed.
•Refrain from travelling on bridges or roads in low-lying areas, which are particularly vulnerable to flooding; and avoid crossing swollen streams.
The ESD will continue to monitor the weather reports and remain on high alert for any related emergencies.
Residents are equally and strongly urged and encouraged to stay informed and monitor short-term weather forecasts and any warnings or alerts issued by the South African Weather Service and other credible sources, and to immediately follow the recommended safety tips.
We further call on residents to be vigilant and to please immediately report any fire or rescue incident by calling 107 toll-free or alternatively calling 012 358 6300/6400.
When reporting an emergency, please remain calm, speak clearly, know where you are to give the correct address, and give your correct contact number to allow the operator to phone you back should they require doing so.