Heavy rains and flooding risk: 16 safety tips for festive season travel

South Africans are being urged to stay alert as Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa warns of possible flooding during the festive season due to above-normal rainfall and thunderstorms.

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What to expect this festive season

The Highveld will likely see frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Meanwhile, eastern provinces such as the Eastern Cape face a 30%–60% chance of storms as Christmas and New Year approach. These conditions increase the risk of flash floods, especially in low-lying or poorly drained areas.

Residents and travellers should take extra care on roads and near rivers or streams.

16 flood safety tips from government

The Department of Cooperative Governance has issued key safety tips to reduce the risk of injury, car damage or worse. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety checklist for flooding

• Avoid low-lying bridges, streams, and rivers
• Never drive or walk through fast-flowing water
• Stay updated via weather alerts and radio
• Don’t use low-water bridges during heavy rain
• Park vehicles in safer, higher areas
• Be extra cautious at night – hazards are harder to see
• On foot? Avoid walking into moving water
• Don’t camp or park near rivers or flood zones
• Teach children about flood dangers
• Keep your phone charged and emergency numbers handy (112, 10177, 107)
• Store important documents in waterproof containers
• Don’t touch floodwaters – they may be contaminated or electrified
• Use alternative routes if roads are flooded
• Follow instructions from local disaster officials
• Monitor community alerts from COGTA and your municipality
• Evacuate early if in a low-lying area

Official warnings and resources

Authorities stress that even 15cm of moving water can knock an adult off their feet. Motorists, in particular, are urged not to take chances when encountering water-covered roads.

For updates and local alerts, visit:

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• www.sassa.gov.za – for disaster-related social relief
• www.cogta.gov.za – for flood alerts and government updates

Emergency numbers: 112 (mobile), 10177 (ambulance), 107 (Cape Town)