Weather

The SA Weather Service has issued two weather warnings for today. Image: Pixabay

Weather warning for SEVERE thunderstorms and damaging wind

The SA Weather Service has issued two weather warnings for SEVERE thundershowers and damaging wind TODAY

Weather

The SA Weather Service has issued two weather warnings for today. Image: Pixabay

The  SA Weather Service issued two weather warnings for Wednesday, 22 March.

See more weather on the live blog here: Weather live updates

Severe weather warning issued

The first warning, a yellow Level 1, was issued for severe thunderstorms.

This is expected to cause localised damage to property and short-term disruption over the areas along the Lesotho border in the Free State.

ALSO READ: Free State Weather: THUNDERSHOWERS and rain TODAY

The second weather warning, a yellow level 2, has been issued for winds which are expected to cause localised disruption of small harbours and/or a port and difficulty in navigation at sea.

The warning is expected to be in effect from the evening between Cape Point and Mossel Bay.

ALSO READ: Western Cape Weather: Cloudy day for the province

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.

ALSO READ: KwaZulu-Natal Weather: THUNDERSHOWERS and rain expected

  • 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.

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