Drivers urged to be careful

JOBURG motorists have been asked to lower their speeds, increase following distances and keep headlights on as rain is predicted every day for the rest of the week.

City of Joburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) spokesman Synock Matobako said although no flooding has been reported, they are monitoring water levels and are on standby in case of an emergency.

Particular areas being watched are the Jukskei River, the Klip River near Soweto, Klip Valley, New Canada Road in Soweto, the Joe Slovo bridge and the double-decker M2 bridge – all areas known to flood after heavy rains.

They are also monitoring informal settlements that are close to rivers.

Matobako appealed to residents to inform the EMS immediately if they notice flooding.

The SA Weather Service said there was a 60 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms every day until Saturday.

A group called Water Shortage South Africa was started on December 28 by Caroline van Saasen with a vision to get water to communities in droughtstricken areas.

The initiative started as an appeal to returning holidaymakers to take water to drop-off points. A Facebook page was started as the key communication point for people donating water, and where to find the drop-off points.

People from all walks of life volunteered to distribute water to the thirsty. “We appeal to South Africans to continue this outreach,” Van Saasen said. Call her on +27 71 612 4171 for more information.