Picture: Donat Photography / EyeEm
Various parts of South Africa are reeling from days of heavy rains, thunderstorms, and flooding causing widespread disruption across multiple provinces.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an Orange Level 6 warning for disruptive rain, with authorities urging residents to exercise extreme caution.
Widespread impact
Severe weather has battered Gauteng, North West, Free State, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo, where heavy rainfall has led to localised flooding. The Northern Cape has been hit by severe thunderstorms, while **KwaZulu-Natal** is experiencing disruptive rains along the coastline.
In Gauteng, relentless downpours have caused severe flooding, forcing the closure of multiple roads. A tornado struck Montana, Pretoria North. Flooding incidents were reported in Mabopane and Pretoria North.
The extreme weather has already claimed several lives. In kwaMakhutha, south of Durban, three people were killed in mudslides after two houses collapsed.
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Weather outlook: When will conditions improve?
According to SAWS, weather conditions are expected to improve by Friday, with forecasts indicating significantly reduced rainfall by Saturday. However, officials warn that floodwaters may take time to recede, and residents should remain vigilant.
The Orange Level 6 warning issued by SAWS signifies severe weather conditions that pose serious risks, including:
– Flooding of roads, bridges, and settlements
– Damage to property and infrastructure
– Danger to human life
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Road Closures and Travel Disruptions
Flooding has led to multiple road closures in Centurion, including:
– Blackwood Road
– Lyttelton Road
– Soutter Street
– End Street
– Rabie Avenue
– Apies River Bridge
– Flower Street at Eskia Mphahlele Drive in Capital Park
Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution, with authorities advising drivers to reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance, and avoid driving through flooded areas.
Emergency response teams continue to work around the clock to assist affected communities. Residents are urged to stay informed through official weather updates and follow safety advisories.
