Storm alert: Tshwane, Joburg EMS warn of severe thunderstorms

Emergency services in Gauteng have urged residents to take precautions after the South African Weather Service (Saws) issued warnings for severe thunderstorms expected across parts of the province on Friday and into the weekend. Both the City of Tshwane and the City of Johannesburg’s Emergency Management Services (EMS) said their teams remain on high alert, with heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and dangerous driving conditions anticipated. The City of Tshwane Emergency Services confirmed it had received a Yellow Level 4 weather warning for severe thunderstorms from the South African Weather Service for Friday.

Officials warned that communities should exercise caution as thunderstorms are expected. “The impact of climate change during rainy seasons is known to disrupt normal weather systems, often resulting in periods of heavy rainfall, localised flooding, and severe thunderstorms,” it said. According to the city, climate change has increasingly affected rainfall patterns, leading to more unpredictable and intense storms.

“In Tshwane, these conditions have contributed to waterlogged roads. rising river levels, flash floods in low-lying areas, and an increased risk of weather-related incidents,” the city said. The city warned that several areas remain particularly vulnerable to flooding due to their proximity to rivers, streams and low-lying terrain. “Residents are urged to exercise caution, particularly during periods of heavy rain.” Authorities mentioned that the weather conditions may have the following impacts: Meanwhile, Johannesburg EMS said the thunderstorm warning covers most parts of the city and could result in flash flooding in low-lying areas.