weather

A orange level 9 weather warning has been issued for Limpopo and will be in effect until TUESDAY. Image: Pixabay/ SA Weather Service

Orange LEVEL 9 weather warning in effect UNTIL TUESDAY

An orange level 9 weather warning for flooding and widespread mudslides is in effect until TUESDAY for Limpopo

weather

A orange level 9 weather warning has been issued for Limpopo and will be in effect until TUESDAY. Image: Pixabay/ SA Weather Service

The SA Weather Service (SAWS) has issued level 9 and level 5 weather warnings for Limpopo which will remain in effect from today, 12 February until Tuesday, 14 February.

ALSO READ: WATCH: FLOOD warning issued for KwaZulu-Natal TODAY

Level 9 and level 5 weather warnings for Limpopo

A tropical wave from the east will persistently trigger widespread showers and thunderstorms over Limpopo.

The Limpopo escarpment and Lowveld will receive the maximum rainfall amounts.

Numerical models predict the possibility of over 100mm of rain for today and tomorrow in the Limpopo escarpment.

ALSO READ: BREAKING: Orange LEVEL 5 weather warning issued for Gauteng

Currently, some catchment and river systems are full or overflowing

This is putting stress on emergency personnel and disaster management.

ALSO READ: KwaZulu-Natal floods – AVOID these roads

Impacts:

  • Widespread flooding of roads and settlements
  • Danger to life due to fast-flowing streams
  • Displacement of affected communities
  • Major roads and bridges damaged or washed away and transport routes affected
  • Widespread mudslides, rockfalls, and isolated dam wall breakages

ALSO READ: SEVERE weather: Tar on the road WASHED AWAY

What to do if you find yourself in a flash flood

Arrive Alive has issued the following warnings for those who find themselves stuck in flash floods.

  1. Take note of your car’s limitations. If you drive through water that is 15 cm deep or more, it can lose control and stall. 30 cm of water is enough to float most cars, and 60 cm of rushing water can carry away cars, SUVs and pick-ups.
  2. If your car becomes submerged in flood waters, don’t panic. Release your seat belt, roll down your window, and get out. If your windows won’t open, let the car fill with water, then open the doors and swim to the surface. Don’t wait for the car to sink.
  3. If you’re swept away in fast-moving water, point your feet downstream and direct your body over obstacles instead of under them.
  4. If you’re on foot, be aware that 15cm of moving water can knock you down. Avoid contact with flood waters, which may be contaminated with raw sewage, oil, gasoline, or charged with electricity from downed power lines.
  5. Stay vigilant, especially at night, when it’s harder to recognize potentially deadly road hazards. Don’t camp or park your car near rivers or washes, especially during heavy rain or thunderstorms.
  6. Stay informed by tuning in to your local radio station during bad weather. If a flash flood is issued for your area, go to higher ground immediately. You may only have a few seconds before it becomes dangerous.

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