Pretoria residents should keep an eye on the skies on Wednesday, as more rain and possible thunderstorms remain on the cards, although current forecasts suggest storm activity is more likely later in the day.

More rain and thunderstorms are expected in Pretoria on Wednesday, with conditions likely to develop as the day progresses.

According to Weather Hooligan’s Juandre Vorster, Gauteng could see light thunderstorms developing from around midday, with activity expected to intensify later as instability increases across the province.

He explained that a moisture band moving in from the north is contributing to increased convection over Gauteng, while an approaching cold front pushing into the interior is allowing colder air to collide with warmer air from the North West.

This combination is expected to create favourable conditions for thunderstorms, particularly later in the afternoon and evening.

The South African Weather Service had issued a Level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms on Tuesday, as authorities remained on high alert for possible weather-related incidents in Tshwane.

City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department spokesperson Nana Radebe-Kgiba previously cautioned that several areas within Tshwane remain particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to rivers, streams, low-lying terrain, and stormwater systems.

These high-risk areas include, but are not limited to:
• Centurion: Areas along the Hennops River, Irene, Zwartkop, Eldoraigne, and Lyttelton
• Pretoria North and West: Low-lying areas and bridges along the Apies River, including Wonderboom South, Hercules, and Rosslyn
• Mamelodi and Nellmapius: Informal settlements and flood-prone zones near natural drainage channels
• Soshanguve and Mabopane: Areas affected by overflowing stormwater systems

Potential impacts include:
• Heavy downpours that may cause localised flooding in low-lying areas and on flood-prone roads
• Large amounts of small hail, particularly over open areas
• Damaging winds and excessive lightning that may result in structural damage or fires
• Traffic disruptions due to flooded roads
• Increased risk of vehicle accidents due to reduced visibility and slippery surfaces
• Damage to houses or structures, including roof damage

Residents are advised to take the following precautions during severe thunderstorms:
• Stay indoors where possible and avoid contact with metal objects such as fences and power lines
• Do not seek shelter under isolated trees or tall structures
• Avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges or swollen streams

Radebe-Kgiba added that the Emergency Services Department continues to monitor weather developments and remains on high alert for any incidents.

“Residents are urged to stay informed by following short-term weather forecasts and heeding all alerts and warnings issued by the South African Weather Service,” she said.

Emergency numbers for the City of Tshwane are 107 (toll-free) or 012 358 6300/6400.

Also read: Horrific multi-vehicle accident on Moloto Road leaves one dead, dozens injured

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