As warmer months approach, the CoE’s DEMS confirmed that there were no reports of weather-related incidents in the metro thus far. However, the department is not resting on its laurels.

Instead, it is shifting focus from its recently concluded Winter Awareness Campaign to an intensified Summer Awareness Campaign, running until the final weekend of March 2026.

This campaign will tackle several seasonal hazards commonly faced during SA’s summer months, including heatwaves, drought, flooding, thunderstorms and lightning, drownings and sinkholes.

@albertonrecordAs warmer months approach, the CoE’s DEMS confirmed that there were no reports of weather-related incidents in the metro thus far. However, the department is not resting on its laurels. Instead, it is shifting focus from its recently concluded Winter Awareness Campaign to an intensified Summer Awareness Campaign, running until the final weekend of March 2026. This campaign will tackle several seasonal hazards commonly faced during SA’s summer months, including heatwaves, drought, flooding, thunderstorms and lightning, drownings and sinkholes.

♬ original sound – Alberton Record

Technical rescue teams in action

The DEMS technical rescue teams have begun intensive water rescue drills in readiness for the season.

On September 26, the teams held exercises at the Homestead Lake in Benoni to sharpen their response skills.

The next set of drills is at the Germiston Lake at 10:00 on September 30.

These exercises are part of a broader effort that includes biweekly operational planning meetings to identify emerging risks and refine emergency strategies.

Disaster management preparations

In line with disaster preparedness, the department has earmarked temporary shelters for communities displaced by floods, fires or other emergencies. It is stockpiling relief supplies and has formalised partnerships through a memorandum of agreement with key service providers, such as Santam, Meals on Wheels, the National Sea Rescue Institute and the Red Cross.

The city’s Human Settlement and Housing Development departments have assisted with identifying temporary housing solutions and co-ordinating aid for affected families.

Media alerts and public communication

From a media and communications perspective, the DEMS media team will continue to issue real-time alerts based on the South African Weather Service’s updates.

Maintaining communication with the public, particularly those near flood-prone areas, remains a priority.

Interviews with local radio stations are ongoing to ensure widespread dissemination of safety alerts.

The DEMS will give special attention to water streams and locations commonly used for religious and cultural rituals, as these are known to pose a drowning risk, especially during the warmer months when activity increases.

Road safety advice for motorists

The DEMS issued critical road safety tips for motorists navigating through unpredictable weather:

• Ensure tyres are roadworthy;

• Check that windscreen wipers work;

• Ensure the air-conditioning system works correctly, especially to demist windows;

• Check that all the vehicle’s lights and indicators work;

• Keep a safe following distance and reduce speed in wet conditions;

• Be alert to potholes hidden under pooled rainwater;

• Beware of water damming along the roadside, which could cause skidding and loss of control;

• Above all, do not drink and drive. Never use a cellphone while driving, and never overload a vehicle.

Community engagement is key

The city urges residents to remain vigilant and responsive to official alerts.

The DEMS continues to stress the importance of community co-operation, preparedness and safety-first behaviour.

The department remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents through structured planning, active communication and robust emergency response initiatives.

For real-time alerts and more information, follow the CoE on official media platforms and stay tuned to your local radio station.