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FLASH FLOODS EXPECTED FROM TODAY

By SITHEMBILE HLATSHWAYO | 2025-01-08

DISRUPTIVE rain that may lead to localised flooding over some parts of the country is expected from today until Wednesday.

Scattered to widespread rain showers and thunderstorms will be dominating the country.
The rainfall distribution is likely to be over the whole country, hence the difficulty in singling out a particular region or area.

According to an advisory issued by the Meteorological Services, significant downpours are expected.

There is a likelihood of a significant increase in rainfall accumulation with amounts ranging from 50mm to 70mm or more in some areas of the country.

The weather system has been attributed to an upper air trough that would be drawing of lot of tropical moisture into the central and eastern parts of South Africa (SA) and that will result in a high risk of disruptive rain that may lead to localised flooding over some parts of the country.

This system is expected to move slowly out of the country on Wednesday night going through Thursday morning.

The high risk of flooding could lead to low level bridges overflow, slippery roads to motorists and more other hazards related to dangerous water level on the roads.

There is also the risk of damage to property and infrastructure as well as threat to human life.
Given the potential impacts from this system, the nation is advised to take all the necessary precautions.

Eswatini Meteorological Services will continue to monitor the weather system and will update the nation as appropriate.

To ensure safety and preparedness, precautions below are advised:
• Refrain from travelling on bridges or roads in low-lying areas, which are particularly vulnerable to flooding.
• Avoid crossing flooded bridges or swollen streams/rivers.
• Landslides may occur in some roads, drivers are cautioned.

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