Mpumalanga
5 February 2009
The Department of Local Government in Mpumalanga would like to warn all
residents of the province, who are living in low laying areas and next to flood
lines to be on alert as the rains continue to pour in the province. The
department has also instructed all municipalities to be on full alert and on
standby and warn communities in low laying areas to move to higher ground.
Weather patterns indicate that rains will continue through out the weekend.
The Department would like advice communities to take the following
precautions in the event of floods occurring:
* Move to higher ground if flooding is possible.
* Turn off gas and electricity if flooding is definitely about to happen.
* Before crossing a river, either on foot or in a vehicle check whether water
level is rising.
* If trapped in a flooding vehicle, rather abandon it.
* In rural areas relocate livestock to a safe place
* Put home emergency packs in a safe place (identity documents and other
important documents).
The department would also like to warn communities of possible flash floods
and there urges members of the public to be extremely cautious at all times. In
the event of possible flooding communities must call the department's disaster
toll free number 0800 20 2507. The department would also like to warn all road
users to be careful as the roads are wet and in some areas there have been
rocks falling on to the road.
Contact person:
Simphiwe Kunene
Cell: 082 413 3931
Issued by: Department of Local Government, Mpumalanga Provincial
Government
5 February 2009
