Weather Service issues weather alerts for disruptive rain in large parts of Eastern Cape

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a level five (orange) warning for disruptive rain in large parts of the Eastern Cape.

The level five (orange) alert was sent out by the SAWS earlier today, May 18. A steep upper air trough, with a ridging surface high, is expected to result in scattered to widespread showers and thundershowers over the province, on Thursday May 19 to Friday, May 20, SAWS warned.

“Disruptive rain leading to localised flooding is expected in places over the interior.

“The impact could result in flooding of roads, formal and informal settlements, low-lying bridges and areas, as well as infrastructure.”

Disruptions to traffic and municipal services can be expected while dangerous driving conditions are possible, SAWS added.

The public is advised to listen for regular weather updates via radio and social media.

“Postpone travel arrangements until it is safer to travel. Avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams. Monitor the weather conditions and if need be, identify areas to safely store valuable items from flood water.”

Furthermore, SAWS has also issued a level two (yellow) alert from around midday on May 19 to May 20.

Similar to the orange level five warning, the impact of the yellow warning includes disruptive rain which is expected to result in localised flooding of susceptible settlements (formal and informal), roads, low-lying areas and bridges, resulting in damage to property and traffic disruptions.

In this case, the public is advised to take the necessary precautions to secure their properties. They are also advised to be aware of flooded areas when crossing streams and rivers or while driving, and try to avoid them, if possible, especially areas that are prone to flooding.

ISSUED BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN WEATHER SERVICE