Take storm warnings seriously

Residents of the city of Johannesburg are urged to take warning messages of possible thunderstorms seriously even though they are just alerts.

The City Of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services media liaison officer, Mr Robert Mulaudzi, said they have officially entered the thunderstorm season.

Residents are urged to listen to the radio, watch television, read newspapers and also follow the @CityofjoburgZA/@CityofjoburgEMS social media pages for the latest updates regarding Joburg weather.

“Following the recent incidents in which a number of roads were flooded, vehicles were swept away in strong floods and where houses and vehicles were damaged in Ennerdale by a tornado, we call on our motorists and residents to take the necessary precautions, especially those living in low-lying areas like informal settlements. We urge our residents to be better prepared, since we have received another alert of from the South African weather services for the possibility of severe thunderstorms throughout the City of Johannesburg going into the weekend,” said Mr Mulaudzi.

Mr Mulaudzi said they will remain on high alert, monitoring all low-lying areas throughout the weekend to make sure they can respond to any emergency which might occur as quickly as possible.

Flood Safety:

– Be aware of where you build your house and avoid high-risk areas like riverbeds.

– Obey the rules and bylaws of your local municipality. Stay away from land which is prohibited by the local municipality.

– Became involved as a community disaster risk management volunteer. Contact your local BESAFE CENTRE and find out how to become a CERT (Community Emergency Responds Team) in your area.

– Make sure the drains in your area are cleaned regularly and are not blocked by debris, as blocked drains causes flooding.

– Never try to cross flooded rivers, streets, or streams.

– If you are in a low-lying area, monitor the water level and move to higher ground when the water level rises.

-Listen continuously to the radio or television for updated emergency information and be ready to evacuate the area immediately when there is a need to do so.

-Never attempt to cross a flooded river or bridge as your vehicle might be swept away by flood waters.