Be aware of flash floods as it causes danger to humans, animals and nature
Members of the public are advised not to participate in any form of water activities in heavy flowing rivers.
Recently, there have been flash floods experienced in some parts of the country.
This phenomenon happens in a very short space of time span caused mainly by climate change the flashfloods were coupled with heavy hailstorms which left a trail of damage to property and injuries to both people and animals.
The plantations were also destroyed due to heavy rainfalls.
The Department of Water and Sanitation acknowledges current rainfalls that drenched most parts of the country, positively raising water levels in rivers and dams.
The improvement of water levels as a result of the recent rains is however a bitter-sweet occurrence due to some destruction of property.
Members of the public are advised not to participate in any form of water activities in heavy flowing rivers and at isolated dams.
There is a heavy current in the water and there might be dangerous debris that is found in the water.
Therefore, the public is urged to stay away from rivers and dams.
It is understandable that changing weather patterns switching from normal temperature to extreme heat waves cause people to seek places where they can cool off.
Children look for pools to cool off and this could be dangerous for them, especially when they are being unsupervised.
During these summer days, children play in areas of water, be it stagnated water, dams or rivers and incidents of drownings are being reported.
The Department of Water and Sanitation calls on parents and community members to refrain from engaging in situations that could be detrimental to their lives.
The department also calls for those who practice baptisms or traditional ceremonies in rivers to be vigilant as the water levels in the rivers are still high.
School excursions at places of water should also be taken with extreme caution, particularly following this time of heavy rains.
There is a strong flow of water and a strong current in the river, even if the waters on the surface seems to be still.
Water is a very powerful force and it cannot be taken lightly.
In areas that are affected by flash floods, extreme caution should be taken around places of water.
Water safety is very important to both young and old.
As South Africans, let us practice a culture of safety around water resources and even in our swimming pools.
Death and injury because of drowning can be avoided.
The statement is issued by Marcus Monyakeni communications specialist in the Department of Water and Sanitation
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