Pretoria residents urged to stay alert amid level 9 disruptive rainfall warning

Mapaballo Borotho

Disruptive, prolonged rainfall expected in Gauteng this week — Image: Adobe Stock

A level 9 warning for disruptive rainfall has been issued for Tshwane, with up to 150mm of rain expected.
Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to move to higher ground and take safety precautions.
Authorities advise avoiding flooded roads, metal objects, and large bodies of water during the storm.

The City of Tshwane has urged residents to take all precautionary measures on Sunday, following a level 9 alert for disruptive rainfall issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

This severe weather is linked to an intense cut-off low-pressure system. These systems are known to produce widespread rainfall and severe thunderstorms, which significantly increase the risk of flooding, infrastructure damage, and other weather-related hazards.

“Rainfall accumulations of 100–150mm are predicted for the City of Tshwane. Residents in flood-prone areas are strongly advised to immediately relocate temporarily to higher ground, as rapid water accumulation may lead to sudden and dangerous flooding,” said Tshwane Emergency Services spokesperson, Nana Kgiba.

Kgiba further urged residents to avoid metal objects that conduct electricity, such as barbed-wire fences or power lines.

When outdoors, people should move away from lakes, ponds, or any large bodies of water during lightning activity. Additionally, residents are advised not to cross flooded roads, bridges, or swollen streams.

“If trapped in a vehicle during flooding, abandon the vehicle and move to higher ground,” Kgiba warned.