What to do if you’re caught in a flash flood in Buccleuch

With November rains on the horizon, Sandton residents who live in areas with low bridges will know the dangers of flash floods.

JMPD Superintendent Xolani Fihla and the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) were contacted towards finding out which routes to use for accessing Buccleuch in the event of flooding, as well as what motorists ought to do if caught in a flood.

Read more: Tips to navigate and avoid flooded roads

“If you find yourself in a flooded area, remain calm and assess the situation. If possible, drive to higher ground and avoid low-lying areas,” Fihla cautioned. “Never attempt to drive through floodwaters. It only takes a small amount of water to wash away a vehicle. If you are trapped in your car, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened, and call for help if necessary.”

Fihla emphasised the importance of keeping up to date with weather conditions.

“It’s crucial to stay updated through local news and community alerts. Ensure your mobile phone is charged, and consider having a portable charger. Always keep an emergency kit in your car, including a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, water, non-perishable food, a whistle, and additional warm clothing. Familiarise yourself with alternative routes that are less prone to flooding, and always check weather conditions before travelling.”

JRA spokesperson Bertha Peters-Scheepers warned that the Bridge Road bridge in Buccleuch was prone to flooding.

“We send media advisories on time in case there are threats of heavy rains that may result in flash floods,” Peters-Scheepers said. “Gibson Drive West is the only alternative route out of Buccleuch.”

Also read: A week of rain: Kruger’s rivers in full flood

JRA supplied safety tips for motorists and pedestrians during a flash flood:

Vehicle drivers

• Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas, even if the water looks shallow enough to cross
• If you are driving and have come to a flooded area, turn around and go the other way. Many deaths have resulted from attempts to drive through flooded roadways
• If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground
• Never drive into water that covers the road – you do not know how deep it is or whether the road underneath has been washed away. Reduce speed significantly to avoid vehicle floating.
• Look out for flooding on highway dips and bridges, especially low-lying bridges
• Exercise caution, especially at night when visibility is poor.

Pedestrians

• If a flash flood is likely, move to higher ground immediately and stay there. Avoid walking through any flood waters. You cannot outrun a flash flood
• Keep away from places that are likely to flood, such as ditches or dry stream beds
• Avoid areas that are flooded
• Avoid areas where water is flowing rapidly – especially high-velocity flow areas
• Never attempt to run across flooding water if the water level is above your ankles
• Do not walk into or near high water
• Keep children away from playing in drainage ditches and stormwater drains.

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Related article: Follow these tips to navigate and avoid flooded roads