Rainy weather and cool temperatures to persist into the weekend
Going into the weekend, there’s a likely chance of thundershowers on Saturday.
Flood-hit Centurion and other parts of Pretoria were warned to brace as more rain were expected throughout the week, the SA Weather Service said on Tuesday.
Forecaster Luthando Masinini said the rainy weather could last until Sunday.
“For today, we are experiencing scattered showers and thundershowers. We are expecting persistent rain throughout which could lead to localised flooding,” he said.
Temperatures have dropped to a maximum of 19 °C for Tuesday,
Masinini said light showers were expected in the early hours of Wednesday with temperatures peaking at 23 °C.
“We are predicting light drizzle for both Thursday and Friday.”
No severe storms or hail expected throughout the week, Masinini added.
“Going into the weekend, there’s a likely chance of thundershowers on Saturday.”
Tshwane Emergency Services spokesperson Charles Mabaso said teams have been dispatched this week to keep a watch especially in low lying areas.
“This morning, our firefighters were cutting and clearing a fallen tree on Nico Smith and 22 Avenue in Villieria,” he said.
Mabaso said the community and motorists should be alert of rising water levels especially around Centurion.
This water levels include Blackwood Road, End and West streets and the Hendrick Verwoerd lake dam wall.
“The ground is already saturated in most areas of the province and city and as such, any amount of rain may contribute to flash flooding and traffic disruptions,” Mabaso said.
The following precautions could be taken during a flood:
– If possible, stay indoors and off the roads. Avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above your ankles. If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon the vehicle and get to higher ground.
– Take special care of children; keep them away from flooded streams and rivers during storm conditions.
– In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level. Switch off electricity at the supply point to the building.
– Make sure water can flow freely through your yard. If the water level rises outside your house, open the doors so water can drain and not cause any structural damage. If at all possible, channel water in the direction of the nearest road or drainage system.
– In rural areas, protect or relocate animals to a safe place on higher ground. Abandon your home immediately if evacuation is recommended, before access is cut off by flood water.
– Never drive on a road that is totally covered by water and no road surface can be seen. You do not know how deep the water is, or whether the road has been washed away. If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
– All low-lying bridges must be avoided during a flood.
– Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognise flood dangers.
– Listen to the radio or TV for warnings and obey the instructions of emergency personnel and disaster management.
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