LEVEL 9 weather warning for thundershowers and FLOODING

The SA Weather Service (SAWS) has issued various weather warnings for today, 10 February, into tomorrow. 

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Level 9 weather warning issued 

The SAWS has issued an orange level 9 warning for disruptive rain with potential for heavy downpours in the escarpment and lowveld areas of Mpumalanga and Limpopo. 

This warning came in response to a cut-off low-pressure system located in the western parts of the country.

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The following impacts are expected:

• Widespread flooding of roads and settlements may occur, posing a danger to life due to fast-flowing streams.
• Large communities could become inaccessible for prolonged periods, potentially displacing affected populations.
• Major roads and bridges may be damaged or washed away.
• Widespread mudslides, rockfalls, and soil erosion may occur

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Safety while driving in rainy weather

Arrive Alive has issued some tips when driving in severe weather.

• To keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you, increase the three-second rule to five-six seconds.
• Slow down if it is raining and the roads are wet. Remove your foot from the accelerator and gradually reduce your speed.
• Never apply the brakes abruptly as this may cause the car to skid.
• Slow down and be prepared to move to the left shoulder if an oncoming vehicle is overtaking from the opposite direction and will not be able to do so safely.
• Only move towards the shoulder if you can see 150m ahead of you clearly. Keep in mind that pedestrians may be walking on the shoulder to avoid mud on the road’s surface.

ALSO READ: Severe weather alert: Cut-off low to bring heavy rainfall, possible flooding to SA

• Be cautious of oil patches. Do not slam on the brakes; instead, steer through. Patches will be small in most cases.
• Before taking a bend, especially a sharp bend, always shift into a lower gear. As you approach the bend, your speed should be at its slowest, and both hands should be on the steering wheel. When driving around a bend, this slow in/fast out technique gives you the most control.
• Double your normal following distance from 3 seconds to 6 seconds to increase your space cushion.
• Switch on your headlights.
• Other vehicles in the rear and in blind spots should be avoided because they are difficult to see through rain-splattered windows.

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