MEDIA RELEASE
TO: ALL MEDIA
ATTENTION: JOURNALISTS AND EDITORS
DATE: Sunday, 16 November 2025
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 9 weather alert for disruptive rain expected to severely affect Gauteng, including Mogale City. Heavy rainfall accompanied by severe thunderstorms (possibly including hail and strong winds) is expected this morning and will continue throughout the day until Monday morning.
These intense conditions may lead to widespread flooding and damage to roads and human settlements, posing a major threat to lives and safety, especially in low-lying areas.
Working in partnership with the West Rand District Disaster Management Centre, the Municipality urges all residents to remain vigilant following this urgent warning from SAWS. While the team led by District Disaster Management will mobilise all necessary emergency services and resources, residents are strongly advised to take the following precautions:
- Avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams.
- Motorists should use headlights, maintain low speeds, and avoid flooded roads.
- Those in low-lying areas at risk of flooding should evacuate to higher ground.
- Stay away from power lines.
- Ensure children avoid streams, open drains, and ditches.
- Avoid metal objects that conduct electricity, such as electric fences, barbed-wire fencing, or power lines.
- When outdoors, immediately move away from lakes, ponds, or large bodies of water during lightning activity.
- Do not seek shelter under isolated trees or tall objects during thunderstorms.
- If trapped in a vehicle during flooding, abandon the vehicle and move to higher ground.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather alerts and follow official communication channels for further safety information.
End
Issued by Mogale City Local Municipality