At least one person has died as a result of the heavy downpour in Johannesburg that saw parts of the city submerged under water on Thursday afternoon.

Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar said a motorist died in an accident on Mnandi road in Diepsloot this afternoon. Details of the incident were not immediately clear.

“The Gillooly's interchange is flooded and is affecting traffic in a southerly direction on the N3,” said Minnaar. “Motorists can use the M1 and M2 as alternatives.”

The City of Johannesburg has issued a warning for heavy flooding, with Alexandra, Bedfordview, Benoni, Edenvale, Fourways, the Johannesburg CBD, Kempton Park and Soweto on high alert.
The JMPD said it was also keeping a close on the Roodepoort area.

The wet weather in Johannesburg is expected to continue over the weekend, with Weather SA forecasting rain on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Monday is expected to be partly cloudy.
Arrive Alive has also issued warnings to drivers, reminding them that you should not try to cross flooded areas. It only takes about 15.24 cm is enough to make a car lose traction and slide, 30cm is enough to float most cars. 61 cm is enough to float an SUV.


Traffic was already backed up on several roads. Motorists were urged to drive with caution, keep their headlights on and reduce speed on the roads.