By Everson Luhanga
- The South African Weather Service uses a warning system from yellow to red to help people survive dangerous storms safely.
- Families must pack basic supplies, switch off their electricity and move to higher ground when a red weather warning hits.
South Africans are facing worse weather, including sudden floods, strong winds and large hailstorms. These storms hit communities fast and hard.
Many people get warnings but do not act. This leaves their families in danger when the weather suddenly gets worse.
The South African Weather Service uses a warning system to show the danger to people and homes.
A yellow level one and two warning means people must stay alert and follow updates.
An orange level three to five warning shows a serious risk. People must not travel unless they have to, and they should tie down loose items outside.
A red level six to ten warning means immediate danger. People must find shelter, stop moving around and follow emergency instructions.
Rudolf Britz from Momentum Insure said storms are becoming more intense.
Britz said people often ignore alerts because they do not understand what they mean.
“These alerts are there to guide behaviour in real time. Knowing how to respond can significantly reduce risk,” he said.
Families must plan escape routes before a storm hits. This means finding a safe place like higher ground, a relative’s home or a community shelter.
People must pack an emergency bag with identity documents, medicine, water, food and basic supplies to last for 48 hours. Cellphones must have airtime and backup power.
Before leaving home, people should turn off their electricity and close their water valves. Moving valuable items to a higher place and taking photos helps with insurance claims later.
When the storm passes, families must check on weak relatives and plan for power cuts.
Pictured above: A lightning storm.
Image source: File
