Multiple vehicles trapped in Johannesburg flooding as JMPD warns motorists

Johannesburg residents are being warned to steer clear of certain parts of the city after several vehicles became trapped in floodwaters on Sunday. The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) reported that officers were on-site to manage traffic, help stranded motorists, and reroute vehicles away from the inundated streets.

Superintendent Xolani Fihla, a spokesperson for the JMPD, stated that the persistent heavy rain had created hazardous driving conditions throughout the city. Specifically, local flooding was reported at the intersection of Siemert Road and Currey Street in the Doornfontein area, where multiple cars were submerged and stuck in the high water.

Drivers heading towards the affected region are being rerouted onto alternate routes and are advised to entirely avoid the area if possible. The JMPD strongly cautioned motorists against attempting to drive through submerged roads or regions with standing water. Fihla emphasized, "If you encounter submerged roads or high standing water, turn around immediately. Stalled vehicles block emergency response access and pose severe safety hazards."

Motorists were also instructed to drive well under the speed limit, maintain a larger following distance, and keep their headlights illuminated. All temporary barriers, road closures, and directions from JMPD personnel directing traffic on-site must be adhered to, according to Fihla.

Should road users come across stranded vehicles, hazardous obstacles, or rising water levels, they are advised to report these issues to the City of Johannesburg’s Emergency Call Centre.