SA Weather Service issues orange level 9 warning for disruptive rain in Gauteng and Mpumalanga

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an updated warning for disruptive rain expected to cause flooding across parts of Gauteng, Mpumalanga and the North West from midnight on Sunday.

A SAWS forecaster Lehlogonolo Thobela said the alert has been escalated to an orange level 9 warning, with forecasters anticipating severe impacts including widespread flooding of roads and low-lying areas, fast-flowing streams posing danger to the public, and the potential displacement of affected communities.

He said the heavy rainfall is expected to affect Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni, extend into the south-western parts of Mpumalanga, and cover some eastern areas of the North West.

The conditions are forecast to persist throughout Sunday into the evening.

SAWS has urged the public to remain vigilant, avoid crossing flooded roads and streams, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during the severe weather.

Meanwhile, on Sunday morning City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said no major incidents had been reported overnight and in the morning due to the disruptive rainfall.

Mulaudzi urged motorists to continue to exercise caution while driving.

“Extend the safe following distance avoid crossing flooded roads and low lying bridges,our residents in low lying areas especially our informal settlements to avoid crossing river streams when conducting daily activities,faith-based organisations are urged to avoid visiting river streams to conduct baptism and cleansing rituals as most of our river streams are full to prevent drowning incidents,” he said.

Mulaudi said the city has activated its disaster management monitoring teams in all 7 regions of the City and all its fire stations are fully operational together with the Aquatic Rescue Unit ready to respond to all water related emergencies.