Severe thunderstorms to lash Gauteng again, residents warned to stay alert

Mapaballo Borotho

SAWS has warned of more severe thunderstorms and rain in Gauteng on Friday.
The storms may cause flooding, hail, and dangerous driving conditions.
Emergency services remain on high alert and urge residents to stay safe and avoid flooded areas.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a warning of more severe thunderstorms and rain in Gauteng on Friday, 7 October 2025.

These weather conditions will lead to heavy rains, localised flooding, hail, and damaging winds.

The warning comes after certain areas were flooded on Thursday, including the Golden Walk Shopping Centre in Germiston, east of Johannesburg.

⚠️ALERT: FLOODING AT GOLDEN WALK SHOPPING CENTRE IN GERMISTON & NEAR GILLOOLY’S INTERCHANGE IN BEDFORDVIEW | 📸 SUPPLIED pic.twitter.com/jYkAz1sImc

— Gauteng Weather (@tWeatherSA) November 6, 2025

Severe thunderstorms and heavy rain hit several areas on Thursday, as motorists struggled with poor visibility and treacherous road conditions. There were also several accidents reported on Johannesburg’s roads.

Meanwhile, the Johannesburg Emergency Services is on high alert following the warning and is prepared to respond to any incidents that might occur.

Spokesperson for the Emergency Services in Johannesburg, Robert Mulaudzi, urged motorists to drive with caution and maintain a safe following distance.

“The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a warning for most parts of the City of Johannesburg for Friday, which might cause flash floods in most of our low-lying areas. Our motorists are urged to exercise caution while driving, extend a safe following distance, and try to avoid crossing flooded roads and low-lying bridges,” said Mulaudzi.

He also urged residents to avoid crossing flooded roads and river streams, particularly in informal settlements.

“Our residents in low-lying areas, especially in informal settlements, should avoid crossing river streams while conducting daily activities. We remain on high alert together with our aquatic rescue unit,” Mulaudzi added.