Gauteng Premier, David Makhura intends to declare some parts of Gauteng disaster areas following the recent fierce flash floods.

This after Joburg and Ekurhuleni experienced the worst case of flash floods on Wednesday causing extensive damage to infrastructure, homes and motor vehicles and killing at least six people.   

Upon arrival from attending an International Investment Conference in Namibia, Premier Makhura received a report from MEC Paul Mashatile, who was the Acting Premier at the time, on the scale of the damage and casualties that resulted from the flash floods. 

Makhura also received a report on how OR Tambo International Airport was affected. On behalf of the provincial government, the Premier conveyed condolences to the families of those who passed on.

“A significant number of our citizens from across Gauteng are continuing to be displaced as the heavy rains continue into the weekend. Provincial and local government disaster management teams have been doing a great job in assisting to provide temporary relief to those affected.

“We are taking the necessary steps to declare a disaster so that we can tap into all available resources to assist those affected by the flash floods and ongoing heavy downpours to rebuild their lives,” said Makhura.

In this regard, the provincial government, Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni municipalities will continue to work together to assist those affected by the floods and attend to necessary infrastructure repairs and upgrades to prevent future disasters of this nature.

In addition, the provincial government urges Gauteng residents to be extra cautious this weekend as more floods are anticipated. 

People living in low-lying areas must take special care during storms, as sudden floods might affect them. Residents living next to rivers and streams must evacuate to a safer place or higher spot when the water level rises.