Torrential rains have Joburg EMS on high alert

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Johannesburg residents have once been urged to remain on high alert and avoid rivers due to ongoing torrential rain and possible flooding.

On Wednesday, two people drowned in the Jukskei River in Bramley, north of Johannesburg, while two others were rescued .

It is alleged that a group of congregants were performing a cleansing ritual when the incident happened.

Johannesburg EMS spokesperson Xolile Khumalo says they are on standby for any emergencies.

“Emergency management services remain on alert as thunderstorms persist and encourage all Johannesburg residents to please be on the lookout for flooded streams, to avoid low lying bridges and to please drive slowly and observe all road rules. We mostly appeal to the residents that have built their homes on river banks, to be extremely cautious during this time. The urban search and rescue team is on standby for any eventualities.”

Today’s weather report:

Meanwhile, residents living near the Jukskei River in Alexandra North of Johannesburg have expressed their willingness to relocate to a safer environment due to the unsafe conditions in the area.

Johannesburg’s public safety MMC, Mgcini Tshwaku says three areas have been designated for the residents following a court order for their relocation.

Residents shared their frustrations, of the unsafe conditions, including water leakage and flooding.

“The municipality doesn’t help us. We have a problem with toilets, leakage of water and we are staying near the Juskei and there’s tenants who are building next to Juskei and that thing it gives us problems. Even with the electricity it gives us a problem because when it’s raining, people are suffering from the river, the river when its full it takes shacks around here and people are forced to build here.”