The City of Joburg has urged community members, particularly religious groups, to avoid visiting rivers and water streams as heavy rain continues to fall in South Africa. The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson, Robert Mulaudzi, said no major incidents have been reported in the seven regions of the city, but disaster management officials are closely monitoring the situation. Mulaudzi also urged motorists to exercise caution and avoid crossing roads or bridges that might be flooded, especially passenger transport, buses, and taxis.
The South African Weather Service (Saws) has issued several weather warnings for disruptive rain and severe thunderstorms in different parts of the country, with the inclement weather expected to clear up by mid-week. The rest of the country can expect between a 30% and 80% chance of rain. Mulaudzi also urged church communities who normally conduct baptisms or rituals to refrain from visiting river streams during this time, as there is a danger of being swept away while they are conducting these rituals.
In December 2022, significant state and private sector resources were marshalled for the rescue of survivors and the recovery of bodies after Masowe church members were swept away by flash floods in the Jukskei River in Joburg. The death toll rose to 14, following an extensive search which included rescue dogs.
