South Africa
Urgent safety warnings after level 9 weather warning─── ZENANDE MPAME 11:21 Tue, 18 Nov 2025
Communities have been urged to take the weather service’s level 9 warning seriously as South Africa braces for severe weather this weekend.
Disaster management teams in Gauteng, North West, and Mpumalanga remain on high alert following warnings of widespread flooding. Emergency services, the SANDF, and the police are ready for flash floods, mudslides, and power disruptions.
The National Disaster Management Centre has activated key response structures, convening the national joint floods coordinating committee and provincial heads to assess readiness and implement contingency plans ahead.
The department of water and sanitation has advised the public to avoid using rivers, streams, and dams during the ongoing intense rains, especially in Gauteng and other parts of the country.
“Lives cannot be replaced,” said Cogta spokesperson Pearl Maseko-Binqose. “As such, every precaution we take, every plan we implement, and every act of preparedness must be guided by the principle of safeguarding human life above all else.
“These actions are simple yet powerful and can save lives and livelihoods, and also prevent avoidable damage to property and infrastructure. Ours is to endeavour to save lives and build community resilience.”
The department suggests the following safety measures:
- Exercise caution and avoid crossing low-lying bridges or flooded roads: such actions remain one of the leading causes of flood-related fatalities.
- Stay informed: monitor local news and SAWS updates for the latest weather forecasts.
- Stay connected: keep in touch with loved ones and neighbours, especially vulnerable individuals.
- Evacuate if necessary: follow instructions from authorities and evacuate to higher ground if in flood-prone areas.
Minister of Cogta Velenkosini Hlabisa urges communities to exercise extreme caution. Photo supplied
In line with the department of water and sanitation’s flood management plan, water outflows at the Vaal and Bloemhof Dams have been increased. The water outflow at the Vaal Dam has been increased from 17 to 60 m³/s on Sunday (16/11). It has been increased from 60 to 120 m³/s at Bloemhof Dam.
The Vaal and Bloemhof Dam recorded levels of 104.07% and 98.88% on Sunday. “Water is a very powerful force, and it cannot be taken lightly. Water safety is very important to both young and old during severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall,” said department spokesperson Dr Mandla Mathebula.
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