Weather

A yellow level 2 weather warning has been issued for Limpopo. Image: Pixabay

Weather warning for THUNDERSHOWERS in Limpopo

The SA Weather Service has issued a yellow level 2 weather warning for Limpopo TODAY, predicting widespread showers and thundershowers

Weather

A yellow level 2 weather warning has been issued for Limpopo. Image: Pixabay


The SA Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow level 2 weather warning for Limpopo today, 8 May.

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Weather warning for scattered to widespread showers

The warning predicts that scattered to widespread showers and thundershowers are likely to occur, with the potential for heavy downpours that could result in localised flooding in certain areas.

This weather event could impact susceptible informal settlements, low-lying roads, and low-lying bridges.

Furthermore, pooling of water on roads and reduced visibility may lead to poor driving conditions, resulting in the closure of low-lying roads and difficult driving conditions on dirt roads.

ALSO READ: Mpumalanga Weather: Warning issued for disruptive rain

HOW TO STAY SAFE DURING HEAVY RAIN

During extreme rainy weather, it is important to take every precaution to stay safe; here are a few tips.

  • During storms, people living in low-lying areas must take special care as sudden floods might affect them.
  • They should monitor the rising water levels and evacuate to a safer place or higher spot when the water level rises.
  • Use other routes and do not cross through flooded roads or bridges.
  • Avoid crossing low-lying bridges, streams, and rivers.
  • Never try to walk, swim, or drive in swift-flowing water as it can sweep you off your feet.
  • Motorists must be very careful and avoid driving through flooded areas.
  • Drive to and park at safer areas.
  • Monitor weather alerts on radio and television.
  • Contact municipal disaster management centers, the nearest police station, or call the national emergency numbers (112, 10177, or 107) when faced with threats.
  • Do not try to drive over a low-water bridge if water is flowing strongly across it and the ground is not visible.
  • Teach children about the dangers of floods.

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  • Keep important documents in a water-resistant container.
  • Keep cell phones in close proximity and have emergency numbers at hand.
  • Be especially vigilant at night as it is harder to recognize potentially deadly road hazards.
  • Do not camp or park cars along rivers or washes, especially during heavy rains or thunderstorms.
  • If on foot, be aware that low moving water can also be dangerous during flood conditions.
  • Do not walk into moving water.

“Communities are encouraged to try to avoid contact with any flood waters as it may be contaminated with raw sewage, oil, or other dangerous substances and may also be charged with electricity from fallen power lines.” the statement by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs concluded.

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