Be aware of flashfloods
“In areas that are affected by flash floods, extreme caution should be taken around places of water.”
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) advised members of the public not to take part in any form of water activities in heavy flowing rivers and at isolated dams.
This comes after recent flash floods in some parts of the country. According to communications specialist at DWS Marcus Monyakeni, this phenomenon happens in a brief space of time.
“The flash floods were coupled with heavy hailstorms, which left a trail of damage to property and injuries to both people and animals. Plantations were also destroyed because of heavy rainfall.”
DWS acknowledged rainfall that drenched most parts of the country, positively raising water levels in rivers and dams.
“The improvement of water levels because of the recent rain is a bittersweet occurrence. There is a heavy current in the water and there might be dangerous debris that is found in water; therefore, the public is urged to stay away from rivers and dams.”
Monyakeni said it is understandable that changing weather patterns cause people to seek places where they can cool off. “Children look for pools to cool off in, and this could be dangerous for them, especially when they are unsupervised. During summer days, children play in areas of water, be it stagnated water, dams or rivers, and incidents of drownings are being reported. DWS calls on parents and community members to not engage in situations that could be detrimental to their lives,” he said.
The department also calls on those who practice baptisms or traditional ceremonies in rivers to be vigilant, as the water levels in the rivers are still high. School excursions at places of water should also be taken with extreme caution, particularly following this time of heavy rains.
Monyakeni added that water is a powerful force and cannot be taken lightly.
“In areas that are affected by flash floods, extreme caution should be taken around places of water. Water safety is important to both young and old. As South Africans, let us practise a culture of safety around water resources and even in our swimming pools. Death and injury because of drowning can be avoided,” said Monyakeni.
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