By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Johannesburg power utility City Power warned that heavy rain may strain the electricity network, resulting in unplanned power outages in several parts of the city.
“Severe weather conditions, such as heavy rain and thunderstorms, may strain our electricity network, resulting in unplanned power outages, City Power said in a statement.
“City Power has implemented contingency measures across all our Service Delivery Centres (SDCs) to reduce the impact of the forecasted adverse weather on our infrastructure.
“We continue to rely on responsible electricity use from customers to help unburden the network and keep the lights on, read the statement.
“Our teams will continue to attend to outstanding outages in different parts of the City, but customers should note that inclement weather conditions may affect our response time to outages, and as a result, repairs and restorations may be delayed.”
The SA Weather Service (SAWS) confirmed on Sunday afternoon that more rain is expected to spread into the northern parts of Gauteng into the evening.
Authorities warn that the predicted conditions could lead to significant damage and disruptions.
“The predictions indicate that areas may experience heavy downpours and hail, coupled with severe thunderstorms, strong winds and possible flooding in vulnerable areas, “the provincial government said.
In an update earlier today, the Gauteng Provincial The Joint Operations Committee (JOC) said it had received reports from several areas hit hard by the bad weather.
In Highlands North, Oaklands and Roodepoort, trees have been blown down and power lines damaged. Parts of Sandton have also been hit by falling trees and snapped cables.
Accidents have also been reported across the province, with one closing the Wonderboom Junction Bridge between Paul Kruger Street and Lavenda Road in Tshwane.
Residents are strongly urged to avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary and to remain indoors where possible.
Dear motorists, please avoid Rabie and End Street in Centurion as low lying bridges are flooded and closed. pic.twitter.com/UNLF45r4Pc
— City of Tshwane (@CityTshwane) November 16, 2025
City of Johannesburg Emergency Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said Disaster Management Monitoring teams had been activated in all 7 regions of the City of Johannesburg, and all fire stations are fully operational, together with the Aquatic Rescue Unit, ready to respond to all water-related emergencies.”
He urged residents to report any emergencies.
“Our residents are encouraged to call our Emergency Services Command and Control Centre on 011 375 5911 for any life-threatening emergencies.”