The South African Weather Service has predicted that disruptive rain will affect some provinces in the country this week.
With this in mind, an expert from the Gauteng emergency services has provided tips to ensure safety during inclement weather. Here’s what motorists and the public need to do when experiencing disruptive rain.
WEATHER WARNINGS ISSUED FOR PARTS OF SA
The South African Weather Service has issued various impact-based warnings for most provinces this week. According to their recent predictions, Yellow level two and four, and Orange level five have been issued.
The areas that will be affected will experience disruptive rain and severe thunderstorms. Weather warnings have been issued for parts of Gauteng, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape.
EXPERT SAFETY TIPS DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER
The Gauteng EMS Emergency Care Practitioner shared a video on X detailing what people need to do when there’s disruptive rain in their area. According to the practitioner, James, this is what the public must do when handling bodies of water during heavy rainfall.
AVOID FLOWING WATER
He explains that the first thing to check when you see a body of water is whether it’s flowing. While driving or on the road, use another route if you see flowing water that’s up to your ankle or 10 centimeters high.
BEWARE OF HIDDEN OBSTACLES
Hidden obstacles are another reason to avoid bodies of water as you can’t see what is under the water. So avoid driving or walking through flowing, deep water during heavy rainfall.
REDUCE SPEED
Reducing speed is also a tip James provided to ensure safety during inclement weather. Speed should be reduced to between 5 and 7km/h.
AVOID CROSSING RIVERS
The public was also warned of crossing rivers that are up to their ankles and especially those that are flowing. James explained that children and older people are especially at risk of drowning.
WHICH PROVINCE ARE YOU AT AND WILL YOU BE AFFECTED BY THIS INCLEMENT WEATHER?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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