Pretoria – The City of Tshwane has announced that its Emergency Services Department is now on “high alert” due to concerns regarding the potentially adverse effects of the ongoing rainfall.
In a statement issued to The Bulrushes on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, officials from the City of Tshwane expressed that the rains are causing disturbances within “our communities.”
On Monday, January 6, 2025, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Yellow Level 4 alert.
SAWS predicted that disruptive rainfall would occur today, Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
The weather forecast indicates that the rains are expected to continue until Wednesday, January 8, 2025.
The Tshwane Emergency Services Department is urging local residents to remain alert during these severe weather conditions.
The potential impacts of disruptive rainfall might include:
- An elevated risk of localized flooding, especially in vulnerable low-lying areas, informal settlements, and susceptible roadways.
- Possibilities of mudslides, rockfalls, and soil erosion, representing additional threats to resident safety.
- Traffic disruptions stemming from flooding on key routes.
- Minor to significant vehicular accidents caused by reduced visibility and slippery roads.
- Localized service disruptions due to power outages and damage to infrastructure.
- Some communities becoming inaccessible due to being cut off.
- A threat to life posed by rapidly flowing streams and rivers.
The City of Tshwane recommends that communities follow these safety guidelines:
- Where possible, stay indoors and avoid metal objects that could attract lightning. Activities like fishing or golfing in rainy conditions should be avoided as fishing rods and golf clubs may draw lightning.
- Do not take shelter under isolated trees or towering structures during thunderstorms.
- Avoid crossing flooded low-lying streets, bridges, and swollen streams.
The Tshwane Emergency Services Department will keep monitoring weather updates and remain alert for any emergencies related to this situation.
“Residents are strongly encouraged to stay informed and pay attention to short-term weather forecasts, including any warnings or alerts from the SAWS and other reliable sources, and to adhere to the suggested safety measures without delay,” stated the Tshwane Emergency Services Department.
“We further urge residents to remain vigilant and report any fire or rescue incidents without hesitation by calling 107 toll-free or alternatively at 012 358 6300/6400.
“When you report an emergency, please stay calm, articulate clearly, know your location to provide the accurate address, and give your contact number so the operator can call you back if necessary.”
