The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has cautioned motorists and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution on the roads due to adverse weather conditions and high winds affecting various parts of the city.
The warning comes after severe weather caused waterlogged soil and uprooted trees, leading to multiple road obstructions and hazardous driving conditions across Johannesburg.
According to JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla, fallen trees and storm debris have caused significant traffic disruptions across several key routes.
“Currently, Cooper and Beryl Street in Cyrildene, near Athlone Girls’ High School, is blocked due to a large tree that has fallen across the roadway, completely obstructing traffic flow.
“Intersections at Church Street and 14th Avenue in Mayfair, as well as Beatrice Street and Princes Avenue in Windsor, are currently obstructed, with motorists advised to reroute via nearby side streets such as Central Road, Bird Street, Countesses Avenue or Rifle Range Road.
“In Witpoortjie, a severe incident occurred at 545 Glen William Street and Hendrik Boom Street, where a large tree fell onto a JMPD vehicle. The road is completely closed while emergency crews respond, and traffic is being diverted to Generaal Pienaar Avenue or Prospect Street,” said Fihla.
Furthermore, Fihla said the severe conditions are also affecting some of the highways around the city.
“Highway access is also impacted, as debris is obstructing the Smit Street M1 on-ramp in Braamfontein.
“A fallen tree is blocking the M1 11th Avenue off-ramp near Houghton, causing back-ups onto the main carriageway.
“Drivers heading to the M1 should consider using alternative ramps such as Carr Street, Empire Road, Glenhove Road or Riviera Road,” explained the spokesperson.
Fihla highlighted that emergency response teams, alongside Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), have been dispatched to clear the debris, while JMPD officers have been deployed to assist with traffic diversions.
Meanwhile, the City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) said it is monitoring the weather conditions and has responded to some of the emergencies.
“In Linden, strong winds blew off the roof of a block of flats, affecting 12 units, with two severely affected and 10 slightly damaged.
“No injuries were reported.
“However, due to the continued windy conditions, the situation may change.
“We urge residents to remain vigilant and exercise caution,” appealed EMS Media Liaison Officer Kagiso Phasha.
