Tshwane: The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department is urging communities to exercise caution as thunderstorms are expected on Friday 06 March 2026. This advisory follows a Yellow Level 4 weather warning for severe thunderstorms issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) for Gauteng and Mpumalanga on Thursday.
According to South African Government News Agency, the SAWS has highlighted the potential impacts of the thunderstorms, which include damage to infrastructure, informal settlements, property, vehicles, livelihoods, and livestock. The City Emergency Services Department noted that the impact of climate change during rainy seasons often disrupts normal weather systems, leading to heavy rainfall, localized flooding, and severe thunderstorms. In Tshwane, these conditions have resulted in waterlogged roads, rising river levels, flash floods in low-lying areas, and an increased risk of weather-related incidents.
In a statement released on Friday, the department emphasized that climate change continues to exacerbate these impacts, with rainfall events becoming more unpredictable and intense. Residents are urged to exercise caution, particularly during periods of heavy rain, as several areas within Tshwane are vulnerable due to their proximity to rivers, streams, low-lying terrain, and stormwater systems.
High-risk areas identified include Centurion, particularly along the Hennops River, Irene, Zwartkop, Eldoraigne, and Lyttelton; Pretoria North and West, including low-lying areas and bridges around the Apies River, Wonderboom South, Hercules, and Rosslyn; Mamelodi and Nellmapius, especially informal settlements; and Soshanguve and Mabopane, which are affected by overflowing stormwater.
The potential impacts of the thunderstorms may include heavy downpours leading to localized flooding, large amounts of small hail, damaging winds, excessive lightning, traffic disruptions, vehicle accidents, and damage to houses or structures. The municipality has issued safety tips for residents to follow during severe thunderstorms, such as staying indoors, avoiding metal objects, not seeking shelter under isolated trees, and avoiding flooded roads.
The Emergency Services Department will remain on high alert and continue to monitor weather developments closely. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by following short-term weather forecasts and heeding all alerts and warnings issued by the South African Weather Service. The public can contact the City of Tshwane Emergency on 107 toll-free or 012 358 6300/6400 for assistance.