Weather warning: safety precautions to follow during possible flooding

The South African Weather Service has issued a warning to be alert for possible flooding.

This statement follows a cold front which moved over the country on the morning of 4 October, resulting in windy, rainy and cold conditions.

Severe thunderstorms with a risk of heavy downpours and strong gusty winds are also expected for this weekend.

Possible effects of heavy weather are as follows:

• Wet and slippery roads
• Occasional poor visibility
• Strong gusty winds would make for dangerous driving conditions
• Heavy downpours resulting in flash floods.

Precautions to take during flooding are as follows:

• If walking outdoors, avoid crossing rivers and streams where water is above your ankles
• Do not walk in 15cm of fast-moving flood water as this could knock you over
• Never try to walk, swim or drive through fast-moving flood water. Stop, turn around and go another way
• Listen to the weather warnings on radio or television.
• Never drive into water covering the road. You do not know how deep it is or if the road has been washed away.
• If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
• Be cautious at night when it is harder to recognise flood danger.