Rainy weather means wet and slippery roads – drive with caution
Crashes in wet conditions are common, and everyone should heed the call to drive safely, says the AA.
According to the SAWS, widespread showers and thundershowers developed over much of the country since Saturday April 6 and will continue until at least today, Tuesday April 9, whereafter calm and clear weather conditions will return to many areas.
🌧️Weather & ⚠️severe weather alerts for tomorrow, 8 April 2024.#saws #weatheroutlook #southafricanweather #weatherupdate pic.twitter.com/2rYB6kJk9q
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) April 8, 2024
There are a lot of wet roads out there, meaning that tyres may only have half as much grip on the surface as they do on dry roads.
🌧️Weather outlook for⛈️ Wednesday & Thursday, 10 & 11 April 2024.#saws#weatheroutlook#southafricanweather#weatherupdate pic.twitter.com/yLXbfLG8l4
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) April 8, 2024
How can we Prevent Rollover Crashes? Reduce Speed when Driving on Wet Roads! Don't Drive Distracted!! https://t.co/AMBP2bBru1 #ArriveAlive #WetRoads pic.twitter.com/fskcJ96GwW
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) April 2, 2024
According to the Automobile Assocation (AA), motorists need to be aware that the conditions are different and must adapt their driving accordingly.
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“They need to brake earlier, enter corners at slower speeds and maintain focus on the road ahead at all times.”
The AA also advised motorists to check that their windscreen wipers are working properly (front and back) and that their brakes are sound.
Wet roads affect driving conditions, it makes the road slippery which can cause hydroplaning, thus, it is crucial to drive slowly when it is raining. #AgaLeRona #GrowingGautengTogether pic.twitter.com/pcOnUwscjm
— Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (@GPDRT_) April 9, 2024
“Motorists should also check the condition of their tyres to avoid aquaplaning. Aquaplaning occurs when the tread on the tyres is no longer able to channel water away, and the tyre lifts off the road surface and starts to skim across the water like a speedboat,” the AA said.
📢 *A message from Premier Alan Winde | 9:30am*
The situation in the Garden Route region may change a lot today as rain continues to fall – leading to localised flooding and road closures.
NOTE: Since the time of recording this message, many roads may have reopened/closed.… pic.twitter.com/sjVjWgSzEJ
— Premier Alan Winde (@alanwinde) April 9, 2024
Do not take any chances with safety. “Crashes in wet conditions are common, and everyone should heed the call to drive safely. Switch on your headlights, maintain a good following distance from the car ahead of you, and don’t speed. Importantly, always wear your safety belt and ensure all children and passengers are also strapped in.”
#saws #southafricanweather #weatheroutlook@SAWeatherServic https://t.co/1bEhdCb6lD
— Lehlohonolo (Thee weather prophet🌧). (@hlonithobela) April 9, 2024
Some tips from the association to keep safe in wet conditions include:
• Ensure your headlights and brake lights are working.
• Switch on your headlights, especially when natural light is low. Remember, this also alerts other drivers to your presence on the road.
• Ensure your windscreen and wipers are in good condition.
• Check that your tyres are in good shape.
• Don’t speed, and maintain a safe following distance.
• Buckle up.
• Don’t cross low-lying bridges, even if you think your car can make it.
• Slow down before entering standing water on the road as this may cause the car to ‘pull’ to the side without warning, and it may be deeper than it looks.
• Avoid areas where there are known to be adverse conditions.
• Adjust your speed for the condition of the road.
Please take care while you’re out on the road.
#SAWS #WEATHEROUTLOOk#weatherupdate @SAWeatherServic https://t.co/kb0DhH4EDz
— Lehlohonolo (Thee weather prophet🌧). (@hlonithobela) April 9, 2024
Source: AA
