Orange Level 6 Warning: Heavy rains lead to flooding, road closures in Tshwane
The following streets have been closed due to flooding: End and Rabie streets, Blackwood and Lyttelton roads in Centurion; Soutter Street in Pretoria West; and Flowers Street and Eskia Mphahlele Drive in Capital Park.
Heavy rainfall in Tshwane has caused widespread disruptions, with multiple street closures reported in Centurion and other parts of the city.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 6 warning for disruptive rain over parts of Gauteng, including Tshwane, with an 80% chance of rain predicted for today.
Motorists in Tshwane are urged to avoid low lying bridges that are flooded. It is not safe!
— City of Tshwane (@CityTshwane) February 19, 2025
Tshwane Emergency Services spokesperson Lindsay Mnguni has urged residents to exercise caution under these dangerous conditions.
He confirmed that several streets in Centurion and around the city have been closed as a result of the persistent downpours.
“End Street, Rabie Street, Blackwood Road, and Lyttelton Road in Centurion are among those affected.”
Soutter Street in Pretoria West, the Apies River Bridge, Flowers Street and Eskia Mphahlele Drive in Capital Park have also been shut down due to rising water levels.
⚠️Warning upgrade🌧🌧🌧#saws #weatheroutlook #southafricanweather pic.twitter.com/14Rr5N84gb
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) February 19, 2025
Weather update for today, 19 February 2024:
⛈Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are expected in most parts of the country but widespread n the east. ⚠️Disruptive rainfall and damaging winds#saws #weatheroutlook #southafricanweather pic.twitter.com/Pon4BnxVFq— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) February 19, 2025
Motorists are advised to steer clear of these streets and plan alternative routes to ensure their safety.
Mnguni added that the Tshwane emergency services are monitoring several flood-prone areas for further developments.
These include Nellmapius Road near the Irene Dairy Farm, the West Bridge under the N1 in Centurion, and Lenchen Avenue North and South near the Centurion Lake Hotel.
These areas remain under close observation as the situation continues to evolve. Mnguni added that they are also closely monitoring Block BB and Block DD in Soshanguve, which have already experienced flooding.
The Sesmylspruit River is also allegedly experiencing water pushback from Kaalspruit.
The Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD) has strongly urged motorists to avoid driving over low-lying water bridges during heavy rains and storms.
They have also advised drivers to take precautionary measures when driving in places likely to be affected by heavy rains, such as switching on headlamps and driving cautiously.
“When driving in wet weather, avoid speed and drive with caution.”
According to SAWS, the Level 6 warning indicates serious disruptions, including flooding of roads and settlements, both formal and informal, as well as mudslides and potential rockfalls.
“There is a danger to life, particularly for those living near rivers and streams, which may have fast-flowing or deep water,” it warned.
The weather service also highlighted the likelihood of major disruptions to traffic due to flooded roads and poor driving conditions, with possible damage to low-lying roads and bridges.
“In some cases, communities surrounded by rivers or streams may be temporarily cut off and inaccessible.”
Residents are advised to follow these safety tips to mitigate the risks posed by the heavy rainfall:
– Stay indoors whenever possible and avoid outdoor activities that could expose you to lightning, such as fishing or golfing.
– Avoid seeking shelter under isolated trees or tall objects during thunderstorms.
– Motorists and pedestrians should exercise extreme caution on slippery roads with reduced visibility.
– Move to higher ground immediately if you notice rising water levels.
– Refrain from crossing swollen streams or travelling on bridges and roads in low-lying areas prone to flooding.
Residents are encouraged to report any fire or rescue incidents by calling 107 toll-free or 012 358 6300/6400.
When reporting an emergency, residents are reminded to remain calm, provide the correct address, and share their contact numbers to allow operators to follow up if necessary.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok.
