Tshwane warns of severe thunderstorms

Hail has already been reported on the West Rand.

"Thunderstorms are usually accompanied by thunder, lightning, strong winds, hail and rain and last about 30 minutes, but in severe cases, it may last longer," it said in a statement.

Tshwane Emergency Services is urging members of the community to take note of the following precautionary measures:

Precautions to be taken for households:

·        Repair all roof leaks.

·        Trim back tree branches from your house.

·        Check and clean roof gutters.

·        Do not dump rubbish in the water drainage system.

·        When erecting a house or dwelling, make sure it is clear of the natural watercourses of the surrounding area.

·        Erect a lightning conductor when you live in a thatched building.

·        Have emergency numbers at hand.

Precautions to be taken upon receiving warnings:

·        Secure all loose objects outside the house or dwelling.

·        Cover cars or park them in garages.

·        Bring livestock and pets to shelter.

·        Disconnect all electrical appliances.

·        Stop all swimming.

·        Listen to the radio for the latest weather updates and information.

·        Have an emergency kit with torches, batteries, candles and matches ready.

·        Remember that if you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance of the storm.

Precautions when you are outdoors during a storm:

·        Go inside a building if you can.

·        Do not operate metal machinery or objects like bicycles and lawnmowers.

·        Avoid hilltops and high areas.

·        Avoid open spaces, like sports fields.

·        Keep away from isolated tall trees.

·        Holding an umbrella or fishing rod is particularly dangerous if you are in an open space.

·        Do not drive during a severe storm – get a safe place to park, but not close to electrical power lines, trees, streams and rivers.

·        Do not swim.

·        Stay clear of metal structures like fences.

Precautions when you are indoors during a storm:

·        Do not use electrical appliances.

·        Avoid using the telephone.

·        Do not shower or bath.

·        Do not touch metal objects like window and door burglar proofing when looking outside.

·        Do not stand in front of windows.

·        When living in a metal structure, avoid touching the walls and floors.

Precautions after a thunderstorm:

·        Wait for 30 minutes after the last thunder was heard before attempting to go outside.

·        Look out for fallen trees, branches and power lines, as well as flooded watercourses.

·        Beware of slippery roads, especially after the first heavy rains after winter.

Actions to be taken when someone is struck by lightning:

·        One can handle victims without fear of also being shocked.

·        Ensure that victims receive medical attention immediately.

·        Listen and feel for breathing.

·        If no breathing can be detected, do mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

·        Feel, listen and watch for heartbeat. If absent, perform CPR.

·        Call for medical help.

How can I prepare myself for extreme cold?

·        Listen to your radio and television for weather reports and emergency notices.

·        Eat regularly and drink lots of liquid, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.

·        Do not exhaust yourself when you work outside, as it can bring on a heart attack. If you must work outside, stretch before starting your work.

·        Temporarily close off some rooms.

·        Let fresh air into the house when using paraffin/gas heaters to avoid build-up of toxic fumes.

If you have to go outside:

·        Wear several layers of loose-fitting, light-weight and warm clothing, rather than one layer of heavy clothing.

·        The outer garments should be tightly woven and waterproof.

·        Wear gloves.

·        Wear a hat.

·        Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

·        Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive – travel in the day, don’t travel alone, and keep others informed of your schedule

·        Stay on main roads; avoid back-road shortcuts.

How do I prepare my home for extreme cold weather conditions?

·        Listen to weather forecasts regularly, as they sometimes give several days’ notice of advancing cold weather.

·        Ensure your fireplace, wood stove or paraffin lamp is well ventilated (use chimneys as far as possible).

·        Extinguish all open fires and switch off all heating appliances before you leave the area or go to bed.

·        Keep elderly people warm, as they are less able to feel a change in temperature and may fall ill from the cold more easily than younger people.

·        If you have pets, bring them indoors. If you cannot bring them inside, provide shelter that keeps them warm and make sure that they have unfrozen water.

What if I have no heaters/heating equipment at home?

·        Close the doors of all unneeded rooms.

·        Stuff towels or rags in openings underneath doors.

·        Close all windows to stop the wind from coming in.

·        Wear layers of loose-fitting, light-weight, warm clothes and cover yourself with blankets.

Emergency numbers

10177

012 310 6300

012 310 6400