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The Gauteng Executive Council on Wednesday 16 November 2016, at a special meeting held in Johannesburg, decided to declare a state of disaster in parts of Gauteng affected by flash floods in terms of section 41 of the Disaster Management Act.

On the afternoon of 9 November 2016 Gauteng experienced heavy downpours which led to flash floods in parts of Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni.  The flash floods caused loss of lives, extensive damage to residential properties and major traffic jams on the N3 highway with several vehicles swept away and others completely submerged in water.

The OR Tambo International Airport was also severely impacted by the flash floods leading to suspension of services for several hours.

More heavy downpours and storms were reported over the past few days affecting various parts of Gauteng.

With more extreme weather predicted over the next few months there is a risk of negative impacts socially and economically.  Production levels may be affected as people have to leave work early and the schooling programme and social services such as health care may be disrupted in areas where public property is damaged by extreme weather.

Premier David Makhura will, in terms of Section 41 of the Disaster Management Act, 57 of 2002, issue a notice in the provincial gazette declaring a state of disaster in areas affected by extreme weather.

The Gauteng Provincial Government will, in collaboration with the other spheres of government, take appropriate action to minimise the negative impacts of extreme weather.

Residents who live in areas that are not suitable for human habitation, such as along the flood line and river banks, will be relocated to safer areas.

The immediate concern of the Gauteng Provincial Government is to assist in whatever way possible the needy and vulnerable who have been displaced as a result of serious damages to their homes.

Today, Gauteng MEC for Health, Qedani Mahlangu and the MEC for Social Development Nandi Mayuthula- Khoza are on the ground in Ennerdale after a tornado swept through the area earlier this week. About 50 houses have been damaged and 200 people have been affected. The MECs will ensure those in need receive the required support and assistance.

The Department of Roads and Transport will also conduct regular checks on all roads, bridges and other infrastructure to ensure that they function well and are able to withstand any extreme weather.

The Department of Health will activate the Outbreak Response Unit to minimise the impact of a possible outbreak after tests confirmed the presence of e-coli bacteria in the Jukskei River water.   

All other departments will intervene as required to help reduce the negative impact of extreme weather.

The Gauteng government is also reviewing its Disaster Management Strategy to strengthen existing capability to deal with disasters.

In addition, the Gauteng government would like to extend a word of thanks to everyone who assisted those in need, this includes the Gift of the Givers, community organisations as well as local business people.

Issued by Gauteng Provincial Government