By Alicia Mmashakana and Lungile Ntimba
The SA Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow level 5 warning for disruptive rain and severe thunderstorms.
Limpopo and Mpumalanga have received a yellow level 5 disruptive rain warning, with a yellow level 2 warning of localised flooding expected in northern Gauteng, south-western Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape.
“Localised flooding of susceptible formal/informal settlements, low-lying roads and bridges is possible. Difficult driving conditions can be expected on dirt roads and minor motor vehicle accidents due to poor visibility and slippery roads. (There may be) localised damage to mud-built houses,” the SAWS said.
Extreme fire danger is predicted for the north-central and eastern Northern Cape, the south-western North West and the western Free State.
“Conditions are such that the FDI index is above 75. Under these conditions fires may develop and spread rapidly resulting in damage to property and possible loss of human and/or animal life.”
Meanwhile, the Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) informed stakeholders and passengers about flight disruptions at George Airport caused by severe weather conditions.
According to ATNS, the region was experiencing heavy rains with a low cloud base, and strong winds which resulted in the implementation of flight diversions, impacting the operations of both FlySafair and Airlink.
Last week, Limpopo experienced severe rainfall, leading to at least five deaths. The flooding left numerous areas inaccessible and caused extensive infrastructure damage.
The most affected regions include the Waterberg and Vhembe districts, where fatalities and displacement have heightened the urgency for intervention.
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