The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) has placed its emergency response teams on high alert following a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

The warning covers parts of south-western Gauteng, including the City of Ekurhuleni.

DEMS spokesperson William Ntladi said showers and thundershowers are expected and could become severe.

“Thundershowers are expected to be accompanied by large amounts of small hail, excessive lightning, strong gusty winds and heavy downpours, which may result in localised flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas and bridges,” said Ntladi.

Also read: EMPD weekly tip: driving in wet weather

DEMS said its aquatic teams, vehicle rescue teams and firefighters remain on standby to respond to emergencies.

Residents and motorists are urged to take the following precautions:

• Motorists should remain alert, maintain a safe following distance and reduce their speed according to road and weather conditions.
• Do not attempt to cross a bridge that has been submerged by water. Use an alternative route.
• Ensure vehicles are roadworthy, particularly the tyres, vehicle lighting, windscreen wipers and braking systems.
• Pedestrians should exercise extreme caution when crossing roads and avoid flooded streams. Use designated bridges to reduce the risk of drowning.
• Keep children indoors during severe thunderstorms.
• Avoid sporting and other outdoor activities in open fields during thunderstorms accompanied by lightning. Lightning can strike exposed objects and people.

DEMS urged residents to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions as weather conditions develop.

For life-threatening emergencies, residents can contact DEMS on 011 458 0911 so that the necessary assistance can be dispatched.