DEMS on high alert in case of adverse weather this weekend

Residents must call emergency services in the event of flash floods or destructive heavy downpours.

Be on alert in adverse weather conditions.

Following a warning by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) regarding extreme weather conditions expected to affect the central and eastern portions of the country including Ekurhuleni from Friday, December 7, going into the weekend, Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) urge residents to be vigilant.

Residents must call emergency services in the event of flash floods or destructive heavy downpours in their areas of residence.

Gauteng is one of the provinces anticipated to experience heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms with possible localised flooding over the weekend.

Susceptible informal and formal settlement dwellers need to be on high alert as roads, low-lying bridges, furrows and water canals might be negatively affected by flash floods.

Pre-cautionary measures when encountering flooding:

Avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams, where water is above one’s ankles.
If trapped in a flooding situation whilst in a vehicle, it is preferable to abandon it and climb to higher ground.
In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level. Switch electricity off at the supply point to the building.
Illegal electrical connection cables spell danger to any life.
In rural areas, the safety of livestock can be assured by relocating them to a safe place on higher grounds under the shelter, preferably before the onset of inclement weather.
Motorists, bikers, bus drivers and truckers are advised never to drive on a road that is flooded or obscured by water. One can’t be certain how deep the water is or if the road is eroded or washed away. If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
Be specifically cautious during the night when it is difficult to identify flood hazards. Listening for warnings is of paramount important as warning instructions may be given by disaster management officials along with safety hints.
Pedestrians must use appropriate routes to cross flooded waterways. They must not use pipe-lines over streams.

DEMS is on high alert for any eventualities that might occur as a result of the weather.

Communities affected by flooding or any life-threatening emergencies are advised to call the Emergency Call Centre on 011 458 0911 immediately for swift intervention.