In Gauteng, widespread showers and thundershowers are forecast, with some areas already experiencing flooding.
Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, Tshepo Motlhale, chief director of the Gauteng Provincial Disaster Management Centre, said the province was bracing for significant challenges.
“The expected impact of this heavy rainfall includes flooding of settlements, roads, and bridges. Traffic flow will be disrupted, some communities may be temporarily isolated, and informal structures are particularly at risk,” he said.
Conditions are expected to remain unstable for the rest of the week.
By Monday afternoon, localised flooding had already been reported in Emfuleni, including areas such as Palm Springs, Everton West, and Sebokeng Zones 3 and 12.
Motlhale also mentioned that infrastructure vulnerabilities were a major concern, particularly in informal settlements.
“Illegal dumping of waste near stormwater drains has exacerbated the problem. Our municipal integrated development plans need to prioritise flood mitigation actions to avoid these recurring incidents,” he said.
He urged residents to take precautions, including staying indoors during severe weather, avoiding crossing swollen rivers or streams, and keeping informed through tools such as the WeatherSmart app.
“We also ask motorists to avoid low-lying bridges and flooded roads, as fast-flowing water poses a significant threat to life,” said Motlhale.
KZN braces for severe flooding
Meanwhile, KwaZulu-Natal is facing even more severe conditions, with SAWS issuing a Level 8 disruptive rain warning for parts of the province. Heavy downpours, which began on Monday, are expected to continue through Wednesday.
According to a statement, Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi, MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, expressed concern about the forecast and its potential consequences.
“The heavy rains we are seeing could lead to overflowing low-water bridges, localised flooding of roads, and significant disruptions to major travel routes,” Buthelezi said.
He added that several districts, including Ethekwini, KwaDukuza, Jozini, and Mthonjaneni, were at high risk.
Disaster management teams mobilised
Buthelezi mentioned in the statement that disaster management teams had been deployed to monitor vulnerable areas and respond to emergencies.
“Our teams are on the ground to assist communities in high-risk zones. We urge residents to follow all safety measures, avoid flooded areas, and relocate to higher ground if necessary,” he said.
KwaZulu-Natal residents have been warned to avoid crossing flooded roads and bridges and to ensure they have emergency supplies on hand in case of evacuation.
“It’s crucial to take these warnings seriously. Floodwaters are extremely dangerous, and even a small amount of fast-moving water can sweep people and vehicles away,” he said.
The SAWS advised the public to stay updated on weather forecasts and emergency alerts. For those in high-risk areas, the advice is clear: limit travel, secure belongings, and prioritise personal safety.
For updates on the weather and safety tips, residents can visit weathersa.co.za or contact local disaster management centres.
