Johannesburg:The Gauteng Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has implemented disaster management measures in anticipation of severe thunderstorms expected across most of the province on Friday afternoon. The warning, issued by the National Forecast Centre, also applies to the south-western parts of the Mpumalanga Highveld.

According to South African Government News Agency, the affected areas include the City of Johannesburg, City of Tshwane, Dipaleseng, Ekurhuleni, Emalahleni, Govan Mbeki, Lekwa, Lesedi, Midvaal, Pixley Ka Seme, and Victor Khanye. CoGTA has alerted provincial and municipal disaster management structures and urged municipalities to activate contingency plans and coordinate preparedness and response measures.

Municipalities have been advised to ensure that disaster management teams, emergency services, and relevant role-players are on standby. They are also instructed to communicate timely warnings to communities and monitor low-lying areas, informal settlements, and flood-prone roads. CoGTA, through the National Disaster Management Centre, will continue to monitor the situation and support coordinated response efforts as needed.

The impending storms are expected to bring strong winds, hail, and heavy downpours, potentially causing flooding, damage to settlements and property, and localized disruptions to power supply and communications. The public is advised to take precautions, such as staying indoors, avoiding metal objects, and not seeking shelter under trees or tall objects. Residents are also warned to avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges, and low-lying areas.