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Monday, July 14, 2025

Motorists are urged to stay alert

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Motorists are urged to stay alert. That’s the request from Mobility MEC, Isaac Sileku. He says with a flood warning that was issued, there could be dangerous road conditions in the Province.

 

The MEC for Mobility, Isaac Sileku said, “We urge all residents and visitors to prioritise safety.”

READ MORE: LOOK: Numerous roads flooded after Cape Town rain

Picture: Armand Hough/African News Agency(ANA)

Motorists are urged to stay alert

 

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe weather alert as multiple cold fronts are expected to hit the Western Cape from Friday, 4 July to Sunday, 6 July 2025. The province is bracing for heavy rainfall, strong winds, and a high risk of flooding, particularly on Friday when the most intense system is forecast to make landfall.

 

MEC Sileku added, “Provincial Traffic Law Enforcement will monitor key routes, manage closures, and respond to incidents.”

 

A second front on Sunday: Motorists beware

 

A second front is due on Sunday, and with already saturated ground conditions, authorities are warning of hazardous driving conditions, including:

Flooded roads and bridges

Waterlogged road surfaces

Reduced visibility due to rain and mist

 

He said, “Each winter, the risks repeat: flooded roads, poor visibility, and increased accidents.”

 

Safety tips for motorists:

 

  • Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain and poor visibility.
  • Increase your following distance and reduce your speed.
  • Keep headlights switched on at all times.
  • Ensure your vehicle’s lights, wipers, tyres, and brakes are in good working condition before setting out.
  • Be cautious when approaching low-lying bridges and flooded roads, do not attempt to drive through standing water.
  • Allow extra time for travel as traffic delays are likely.

“Plan ahead, stay informed, and make small but critical adjustments like reducing speed and switching on headlights,” Sileku concluded.

funerals in the rain
Photo: By Sam / Biblical Interpretation

Safety tips for pedestrians:

 

-> Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially in low-light or rainy conditions.

-> Use pedestrian bridges and crossings where available.

-> Remain alert near roads, especially during peak traffic and poor visibility.

 

Motorists asked to be vigilant and to take safety precautions

The Western Cape Government has called on motorists, pedestrians, and public transport operators to remain vigilant and take safety precautions. Law enforcement and emergency response teams are on high alert, prepared to assist where needed.

 

Motorists are advised to:

 

–  Avoid unnecessary travel

–  Monitor local weather and traffic updates

–  Obey road closures and detours

–  Drive slowly and with headlights on

 

Tune in to Smile FM for live weather updates and road alerts or follow us on our  official social media channels.

 

Stay safe. Stay informed. Delay travel if you can.

Merentia Van Der Vent
Merentia Van Der Vent
Merentia joined the media world in 1996 and in 2001, she took her first steps in the broadcasting world. In her free time, she likes to go on adventures in the city. She also likes to learn new dances, not that she is any good at that.

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