Heavy Rains Lash Gauteng: Emergency Services on High Alert Amid Flood Risks and Slippery Roads
Johannesburg – Emergency services and traffic officials are on high alert across Gauteng as heavy rains continue to pound the province, making roads, highways, and freeways wet, slippery, and in some spots, flooded. The downpours, which started over the weekend, have led to warnings of possible flooding, hail, and strong winds, putting drivers and residents at risk. With no major crashes reported yet, authorities are urging people to slow down, keep safe distances, and avoid low-lying areas. This weather comes amid broader alerts for parts of South Africa, including the Free State, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga, where thunderstorms could cause more trouble. As spring brings unstable conditions, experts say these rains could ease drought but also bring dangers like flash floods.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued yellow level warnings for disruptive rain, which could lead to flooding of roads, bridges, and settlements. In Gauteng, the focus is on keeping people safe while teams stand ready to respond to any problems.
Traffic Warnings: Slow Down and Stay Vigilant
Gauteng Traffic spokesperson Obed Sibasa called on drivers to be extra careful in the bad weather. “It is raining heavily, with the roads, highways and freeways wet, slippery and dangerous, some are flooded. Take it easy on roads and freeways. Headlights on, reduce speed, keep a safe following distance, use wipers. We also advise road users to avoid low-lying bridges, we urge motorists to look out for pedestrians who might cross roads unsafely due to heavy rains,” Sibasa said.
He noted that while no big accidents have happened so far, there have been seven minor bumps. “Currently no serious nor major accidents have been reported due to extremely bad weather, however we recorded seven bumper bashes. Walk and drive safely.”
Similar alerts have come from other areas, like the N4 toll route, where heavy rain was reported along the Highveld and Lowveld regions. Drivers are told to use caution to avoid slips and crashes.
Emergency Services Ready to Respond
Johannesburg emergency services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi backed up the calls for care, saying his teams are on standby. “It’s raining in most parts of the City of Johannesburg, most roads are wet and slippery. Motorists are urged to exercise caution while driving, extend a safe following distance and avoid crossing roads and bridges which might be flooded. From our side as the City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services, we remain on high alert together with our aquatic rescue unit to respond to any emergency.”
The city’s aquatic rescue team is geared up for water-related rescues, a key worry with the risk of flash floods. No big incidents have been reported yet, but with the rain set to go on until evening, officials are watching closely.
Weather Alerts and Broader Impacts
SAWS has warned of severe thunderstorms that could bring hail and strong winds, lasting into the evening. A yellow level 4 warning for disruptive rain means heavy downpours could flood roads and damage homes. In nearby provinces, similar alerts are in place, with cold snaps in the Eastern Cape adding to the mix.
While the rain helps with water levels after dry spells, it raises risks in low areas and on bridges. Pedestrians are also at risk, as heavy rain can make crossing streets dangerous.
Tips for Staying Safe in the Rain
To avoid trouble, drivers should:
Turn on headlights for better sight.
Cut speed and keep more space between cars.
Use wipers and defoggers to clear windows.
Skip flooded roads and bridges – turn around if needed.
Watch for people walking who might dash across.
Emergency teams urge calling for help if stuck, and staying home if possible until the weather clears.
🔴Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 115 🔴Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: Ngwathe Municipality Refuses to Back Down, Heads to Supreme Court of Appeal
Download Here:
Direct PDF File Here:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Central-News-Issue-114-1.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
[SRC] https://centralnews.co.za/heavy-rains-lash-gauteng-emergency-services-on-high-alert-amid-flood-risks-and-slippery-roads/
