An investigation is currently underway in the Midvaal Local Municipality into recurring strong odours resembling ammonia, sulphur and rotten eggs that have been experienced across various areas.

The municipality has acknowledged the discomfort and concern these smells have caused residents. This issue forms part of a wider investigation examining odour episodes affecting parts of Gauteng and Mpumalanga.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has indicated that the odour experienced during these episodes is likely associated with elevated levels of hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), a colourless gas characterised by a strong rotten egg smell, “ says Assistant Director of Communications, Yoland Solomons.

A national hydrogen sulphide task team, which includes affected provinces and relevant environmental authorities, is leading the broader investigation. This work involves assessing potential emission sources, air-quality monitoring results, weather conditions, and how pollutants move and disperse.

Residents who encounter persistent or recurring strong odours are urged to report these incidents through the appropriate municipal and environmental channels. Officials say that this community feedback helps authorities compare local reports against weather conditions and air-quality data.

To make reports as helpful as possible, residents should include the exact location where the odour was noticed, the date and time it began, how long it lasted, the nature and intensity of the smell, the affected neighbourhoods, and any health symptoms experienced.

The department has warned that exposure to hydrogen sulphide can irritate the eyes and respiratory system, cause headaches, dizziness, nausea and breathing difficulties. People living in the area are advised to avoid staying in places with strong odours for prolonged periods and to seek medical help if they suffer from persistent respiratory discomfort or irritation.

Midvaal explains that finding the exact source of the odour requires matching incident times and locations with weather data, air-quality monitoring results and, where possible, atmospheric modelling.

“We wish to clarify that it would be premature to attribute the reported odours to a particular facility, municipality or geographic location while the broader investigation remains underway,” Solomons adds.

The municipality intends to continue co-operating with all relevant authorities as the inquiry progresses, and promises to share verified findings with residents in due course.