News24 | Weather warnings downgraded, but disaster teams still on high alert

A Level 9 weather warning has been downgraded for Gauteng and parts of Limpopo.

A Level 9 weather warning has been downgraded for Gauteng and parts of Limpopo. However, residents can still expect severe weather overnight.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 6 warning for severe thunderstorms over northern Gauteng and the western parts of Limpopo, with a high risk of damaging winds, hail, and heavy downpours.

A Level 4 warning is in effect across the northeastern regions, including eastern Limpopo and Mpumalanga, with the potential for disruptive rain and flooding.

SAWS previously announced a Level 9 warning for parts of Gauteng, North West, and Mpumalanga.

Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa said the National Disaster Management Centre has been coordinating disaster response measures since SAWS issued a Level 9 warning.

READ | Gauteng residents urged to stay indoors after warning of severe thunderstorm, heavy rain

He said disaster management teams are on high alert in the affected provinces and the National Joint Floods Coordinating Committee had convened.

“Lives cannot be replaced, 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. Through our joint efforts, across government, business, civil society, NGOs and communities, we can reduce the risk of disasters, strengthen our resilience, and ensure a safer South Africa for all,” he said.

The rainfall is expected to continue into Monday, with a Level 2 warning for disruptive rain issued for Limpopo.