JOHANNESBURG - Heavy rains have left hundreds displaced, with infrastructure severely damaged in KwaZulu-Natal.
Eleven people died and dozens were injured in floods and mudslides, which also damaged Infrastructure in the province.
On Wednesday, storms battered parts of Gauteng leaving several bridges submerged and roads closed.
Flooding can happen anywhere, whether caused by heavy rains or severe thunderstorms .
Flash floods, in particular, occur suddenly and can be life-threatening.
Since these disasters often give little warning, it’s important to stay prepared and know how to protect yourself with your family and your property.
Here are some tips from ER24:
Stay informed and avoid misinformation
- Monitor weather updates from trusted sources like meteorological services, news reports, and official government agencies.
- Be cautious of unverified warnings on social media, as they can spread unnecessary panic.
- If authorities issue flood warnings or evacuation orders, follow them immediately.
What to do during heavy rain or thunderstorms
- If you are outdoors, seek shelter immediately. Avoid standing near trees, power lines, or any tall structures that could attract lightning.
- If you’re driving, slow down and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Heavy rain reduces visibility and makes roads slippery.
- If driving conditions become too dangerous, pull into a safe location like a petrol station or designated parking area.
- Avoid stopping under bridges or on highways.
Avoid flooded roads and areas
- Never attempt to walk or drive through floodwaters. Even shallow water can be stronger than it looks and may contain hidden debris.
- Flood currents can quickly sweep away people and vehicles, making crossing extremely dangerous.
- If your vehicle is caught in rising water, leave it and move to higher ground if it’s safe to do so.
Protect your home
- If floodwaters are approaching, switch off all electrical appliances at the main distribution board to prevent electrocution.
- Do not attempt to unplug devices near water. Instead, cut off power from a safe and dry location.
- Move valuable items and important documents to higher ground if you have time.
Be prepared
- Keep an emergency kit with essentials like bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and important documents.
- Save emergency contact numbers, and make sure someone knows your location and travel plans, especially during extreme weather.
Floods can be unpredictable, but staying alert and taking precautions can help you stay safe.
Always prioritise your safety and that of those around you.