COGTA says disaster management teams on the lookout following inclement weather

 
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) says disaster management teams will leave nothing to chance as parts of the country are battered by rain. 

The South African Weather Service issued a level 9 warning of severe thunderstorms for Gauteng, North West and Mpumalanga on Sunday.

It was later lowered to an orange level 6 warning, with flooding and heavy rainfall expected to persist again in some areas on Monday.

COGTA minister Velenkosini Hlabisa said emergency services are prepared for potential flash floods, mudslides, and power outages during the wet weather.

"Minister is calling on the public to stay informed, follow official instructions and avoid crossing flooded roads or low-lying bridges. If you are in a flood-prone area, be prepared to move to higher ground," said COGTA spokesperson Pearl Maseko-Binqose.

Maseko-Binqose added that better community coordination is also needed. 

"He also encourages communities to look out for the elderly, children, vulnerable ones and neighbours. Protecting life is the first priority."