Pretoria residents are warned that severe thunderstorms are expected today.

According to Tshwane Emergency Department spokesperson Lindsay Zwelithini Mnguni, the warning is in place for Wednesday.

“The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department would like to call on communities to remain alert following a Yellow Level 2 warning issued by the South African Weather Service for Wednesday for severe thunderstorms over most parts of Gauteng, including Tshwane.”

He said the severe thunderstorms are expected to persist from Tuesday afternoon until about tomorrow night on Wednesday, just before midnight, with 30 to 60 % chances of rain occurring in Tshwane.

Mnguni said the impact of severe thunderstorms may include the following:

• Heavy downpours which may lead to localised flooding, especially of susceptible low-lying areas, flat plains and susceptible roads.
• Large amounts of small hail over an open area
• Damaging winds and excessive lightning which may result in house or other structural fires.
• Disruptions to traffic due to major roads being flooded.
• Minor to major vehicle accidents due to poor driving visibility and slippery road conditions.
• Localised service disruptions due to power failures and other damage to infrastructure.
• Damage to formal and informal settlement houses or structures (roofs).
• Danger to life due to fast-flowing streams and rivers.

He furthermore called on communities to observe the following safety measures:

• If possible, stay indoors and away from metal objects that conduct electricity (barbed wire fences, power lines, etc), which may be hit by lightning.
• Avoid outdoor activities such as fishing or playing golf in the rain as the fishing rods and golf clubs may attract lightning.
• When outdoors during lightning activity, immediately get out and away from ponds, lakes and other bodies of water.
• Do not seek shelter under isolated trees or tall objects if there is a thunderstorm.
• Avoid crossing flooded low-lying roads, bridges and swollen streams.
• If trapped in a vehicle during a flood, abandon it and climb to higher ground.
• In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level.

According to Mnguni, the City of Tshwane, Emergency Services Department will continue to monitor the weather reports and remain on high alert throughout the City for any related emergencies to protect life and property.

“Residents are strongly urged and encouraged to stay informed and monitor short-term weather forecasts and any warnings or alerts issued by the South African Weather Service and other credible sources, and to follow the recommended safety tips immediately.

“We further call on residents to be vigilant and to please immediately report any fire or rescue incident by calling 107 toll-free or alternatively calling 012 358 6300/6400.”

He advised residents to remain calm, speak clearly when reporting an emergency, provide their exact location or address, and give the correct contact number so the operator can call back if necessary.

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