Storm alert: Joburg on high alert as weather warning escalates

The Johannesburg Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has confirmed that all its teams will remain on high alert today following updated warnings for severe thunderstorms.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has dramatically escalated its warning for severe showers.

On Saturday, the alert was increased from an Orange Level 6 to a Level 9 alert—the second-highest level on the scale.

SAWS forecaster Lehllohonolo Thobela said that such conditions could lead to widespread flooding and significant damage to property across the affected provinces.

"The warning has been escalated to an orange level 9 warning, which may result in some severe impact of widespread flooding of roads and settlements, danger to fast-flowing streams,s as well as the possibility of displacement of affected communities. We caution the public to be aware as well as exercise safety during these conditions," Thobela said.

In response to the imminent danger, the Joburg Metro's Department of Public Safety has assured the public that all disaster stakeholders are fully mobilised and ready to respond to any eventuality.

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