SA warned to brace for wet weekend

The South African Weather Service has issued a press statement warning residents of extreme wet conditions this weekend.

The service predicts that heavy rain will spread across the central and eastern parts of the country.

The eastern half of the country, including Gauteng, North West and the Free State, are expected to experience thunderstorms through to tomorrow.

Conditions are expected to ease up on Monday.

Heavy rain has been noted with concern in southern Limpopo, Gauteng, eastern parts of the Free State, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal today.

A chance of widespread flooding is possible.

The weather service has warned that both informal settlements and suburbs are at risk of localised flooding, which may result in the closure of major roads crossing low water bridges. Motorists are warned to drive with extreme caution.

The weather service has provided residents and motorists with the following tips to deal with the impending storms:

If possible, stay indoors and off the roads, avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams.

If trapped in a flooding situation in a vehicle, abandon it and climb to higher ground.

In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level. Switch off electricity.

In the event of duly authorised officials issuing an order to evacuate, abandon the dwelling without undue delay.

Never drive on a road that is flooded or obscured by water.

Be especially cautious at night when it is difficult to identify flood hazards. – CNS/Roodepoort Rekord