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Motorists warned as Vaal Dam floodgates open and heavy storms hit Northern Cape
Motorists across the Northern Cape have been urged to exercise extreme caution following the opening of a fifth sluice gate at the Vaal Dam and a Yellow Level 4 weather warning for severe thunderstorms.
Police spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers confirmed that the Vaal River system has now reached flood stage due to continuous inflows from persistent rainfall. The decision to open another gate came just 24 hours after the fourth gate was opened to relieve pressure on the dam.
Meanwhile, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Yellow Level 4 warning, alerting residents in the northern and north-eastern parts of the Northern Cape of expected heavy downpours. The storm could cause flooding in informal and formal settlements, roads, low-lying bridges, and could lead to damage to infrastructure and risk to livestock and livelihoods.
SAWS also issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms expected in the central and south-eastern interior of the Northern Cape, western Free State, and extreme western parts of North West.
Motorists are being advised to:
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Reduce speed and increase following distance
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Use headlights in poor visibility
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Check that windshield wipers are in working order
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Avoid driving through standing water or puddles
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Watch for spray from larger vehicles that can obscure vision
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Stay focused and pull over if conditions worsen
Colonel Ehlers urged drivers to remain vigilant as the Easter Weekend approaches, emphasizing that law enforcement will be working to protect residents and visitors during the hazardous weather conditions.
On Sunday, Department of Water and Sanitation spokesperson Wisane Mavasa explained that the fifth gate at the Vaal Dam was opened at 10am after water levels surged overnight due to rainfall in the catchment area. This increases the risk of flooding along riverbanks downstream, particularly in lower-lying areas situated within the 100-year floodline.
Officials continue to monitor conditions closely and are encouraging residents in flood-prone areas to remain alert and follow safety updates.
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Sourced:IOL
Picture: Sun Live
