Joburg residents urged to stay safe as severe thunderstorms move in

Johannesburg residents are being warned to stay vigilant as severe thunderstorms sweep through the city this Sunday afternoon. According to Joburg Emergency Medical Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi, there have been no major incidents reported thus far. However, motorists are cautioned to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, avoid crossing flooded roads and low-lying bridges.

Those living in low-lying areas are advised to steer clear of rivers and streams, while faith-based organizations are urged against conducting baptism or cleansing rituals near waterways. The rain persists in parts of Johannesburg, including Soweto, as the city focuses on the impending announcement of local government election results at the Results Operations Centre in Midrand on Sunday.

In Soweto, regions such as Orlando, Diepkloof, and Dube are experiencing rainfall, with residents closely monitoring both the weather conditions and the election developments. The South African Weather Service predicts further showers and thundershowers across Gauteng, as the nation awaits the final results of the local government elections.

Authorities have advised residents to exercise caution, as emergency services are on high alert. The forecast for today and tomorrow, November 8-9, 2026, indicates a hot and dry spell in the west, with partly cloudy skies and cool to warm temperatures in other areas. Isolated showers and thundershowers are expected to occur, particularly in eastern parts of the country.