Level 9 weather warning downgraded as heavy rains persist across several provinces

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has downgraded its Level 9 warning for Gauteng and surrounding areas to Level 6 for the remainder of Sunday, but forecasters say the risk of flooding, damaging winds and hail remains high.

According to SAWS, a Level 6 warning is now in effect for northern Gauteng and the western parts of Limpopo, where severe thunderstorms are expected to bring heavy downpours, strong winds and hail.

A Level 4 warning has been issued for eastern Limpopo and Mpumalanga, with disruptive rain and possible flooding forecast through the evening.

SAWS forecaster Lehlogonolo Thobela said strong winds, hail and excessive lightning are likely into the night, with heavy downpours posing a flooding risk over southwestern Limpopo, the extreme east of North West, and the northern parts of Gauteng, including Pretoria.

For the remainder of Mpumalanga, a Yellow Level 4 warning remains in place for severe thunderstorms, with the possibility of hail and damaging winds.

The central and northern KwaZulu-Natal may experience disruptive rain, with flooding expected along fast-flowing streams, low-lying roads and settlements.

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has urged the public to avoid rivers, dams and streams as persistent rains continue across Gauteng, Mpumalanga and other provinces.

DWS spokesperson Dr Mandla Mathebula said many areas in Gauteng had already experienced flash floods, and residents should avoid walking or driving across waterlogged roads, bridges or areas with strong currents.

He said recreational and religious activities near water should be suspended during this period. The department has increased outflows at major dams to manage rising water levels. Vaal Dam outflows increased from 17 to 60 m³/s. Bloemhof Dam outflows increased from 60 to 120 m³/s. The dams were recorded at 104.07% (Vaal) and 98.88% (Bloemhof) on Sunday morning.

Mathebula stressed that the releases are necessary for flood management but will not cause rivers to overflow.