WEATHER ALERT: Floods expected in Ehlanzeni
The Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in Mpumalanga has warned communities to be on high alert in the wake of the flood warning issued by the South African Weather Services (SAWS).
The South African Weather Service has issued a warning of flooding in places over the Ehlanzeni District today.
Minimum and maximum temperatures are at 18 and 21 for Mbombela. It is cloudy with scattered showers and thundershowers
SEE TWEET:
Warning:12/11/2019 10h00 TO:12/11/2019 13h00 Flooding- is expected in places over the Ehlanzeni District in Mpumalanga..SAWS
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) November 12, 2019
The MEC for COGTA, Mandla Msibi said the province is prone to floods and as such communities must exercise caution on the roads and in the rivers and dams.
“The period between November and January is a season for heavy rains. Our roads will be slippery. Bridges are likely to be submerged underwater. Our rivers and dams are likely to overflow if the rain persists. We call on our communities not to risk their lives by crossing the rivers and dams during this period,”
Msibi warned.
READ: The aftermath of the hailstorm in the Lowveld in pictures
He says more than 20 water fatalities have been recorded in Mpumalanga since this year. Most of the fatalities occurred in Ehlanzeni District. He urged communities not to risk their lives in order to reduce the fatalities.
“Resist the temptation of crossing an overflowing bridge, whether by foot or by a car. Parents must restrict their children not to play in the rivers and dams. Residents in low lying areas are at risk of being washed away in case of flooding, and as such, they must evacuate to safe places, before it is too late,” Msibi said.
Disaster Management units in all municipalities are always on high alert and urged communities to contact them for emergency cases.
ALSO READ: VIDEO: Floods hit Nhlazatshe
