Gauteng activates disaster response as severe thunderstorms threaten province

The Gauteng Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has activated disaster management measures following forecasts of severe thunderstorms across most parts of the province on Friday afternoon.

The warning, issued by the National Forecast Centre, also covers parts of the south-western Mpumalanga Highveld.

Areas expected to be affected include the City of Johannesburg, City of Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, Emalahleni, Govan Mbeki, Lekwa, Lesedi, Midvaal, Dipaleseng, Pixley Ka Seme, Victor Khanye and other affected municipalities.

CoGTA said provincial and municipal disaster management structures in the affected areas had been alerted and municipalities were being urged to activate their contingency plans.

Emergency services, disaster management teams and other relevant role-players have been placed on standby as authorities prepare for possible weather-related incidents.

The department has also urged municipalities to issue early warnings to communities and closely monitor areas vulnerable to flooding, particularly informal settlements, low-lying areas and flood-prone roads.

CoGTA said it would continue monitoring the developing weather situation through the National Disaster Management Centre and provide support to provincial and municipal structures where necessary.

The storms are expected to be accompanied by strong winds, hail and heavy downpours, raising the risk of flash flooding and damage to infrastructure and property.

Authorities warned that the severe weather could damage formal and informal settlements, vehicles, homes, infrastructure, livelihoods and livestock.

Flooding could also affect roads and settlements, with some bridges and roads potentially becoming impassable.

In severe cases, communities could be forced to evacuate or become temporarily displaced.

Residents in affected areas have been urged to take precautions and remain alert to weather warnings.

People are advised to stay indoors where possible during thunderstorms and avoid standing near metal objects or seeking shelter under trees and other tall structures.

The public has also been warned against fishing or playing golf during thunderstorms, as fishing rods and golf clubs can conduct electricity.

CoGTA urged motorists and pedestrians to avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges and low-lying areas, warning that the combination of hail, strong winds and heavy rainfall can create dangerous conditions.

Residents are encouraged to monitor official weather and disaster management updates and follow instructions from emergency authorities as conditions develop.