Bridges have been hit by flash flooding in Gauteng, leading to traffic jams as a thunderstorm rocks the province.
© SAWSBridges have been hit by flash flooding in Gauteng, leading to traffic jams as a thunderstorm rocks the province.
Motorists in Gauteng have been urged to drive with extreme caution as heavy rain in the province led to flash flooding on Monday 5 October.

A large thunderstorm and "large hail" currently making affecting Johannesburg is causing drivers major headaches, with bridges hit by flooding causing peak traffic to grind to a standstill.

STORM ROLLING OVER GAUTENG

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) warned on Monday that a "yellow thunderstorm warning" is in place, meaning that residents can expect localised flooding in low lying areas due to heavy rain and large hail and large amounts of small hail which can damage vehicles and property.



They also said that these conditions will be accompanied by reduced driving visibility and strong winds.

"Yellow thunderstorm warning: Warning sign in effect for Gauteng till late evening. Peak traffic hours will be affected with reduced driving visibility, flooding of low lying roads, susceptible areas and bridges, with hail possible," said SAWS.

The Joburg Road Agency said that motorists need to be patient and exercise caution.

"Motorists are urged to obey road signs, traffic signals and especially road closures due to flooded bridges or unsafe driving conditions which are unsafe to traverse," they said.

"In the event of a flash flood, or where residents are at risk, it is advisable to immediately evacuate the area and seek a place of safety. Residents and road users are encouraged to report all road and storm related emergencies to our standby team."

BRIDGES, ROADS CLOSED DUE TO FLOODING

Johannesburg Metro police Department (JMPD) spokesperson Wayne Minnaar said that there have already been several road closures resulting from the adverse weather.

Newtown due to flooding on the freeway. Motorists should exercise caution as JMPD officers are monitoring that situation," he said.

"Klipsruitvalley Road is also flooded in Orlando West, Soweto, between Chris Hani Road and Moroka Nancefield Road. Motorists should drive through Orlando West this afternoon to avoid the flooded area."



He added that officers have been dispatched to several areas to try to maintain order as heavy traffic compounded weather-related issues.