Johannesburg – The Gauteng government has urged residents to prioritise safety as wet and freezing conditions continue across the province, with temperatures expected to fall to around 3°C to 4°C in some areas.
Provincial spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said the combination of rain, cold temperatures and wet roads could pose additional risks to motorists, pedestrians and vulnerable communities.
“We urge residents [to] prepare for rainfall and very cold temperatures, with temperatures expected to drop to around 3–4°C in some parts of the province,” Mhlanga said.
“The combination of rain, cold conditions and wet roads may create additional risks for motorists, pedestrians and vulnerable communities.”
The warning comes as Johannesburg experiences increased electricity demand due to the cold weather, putting additional pressure on the city’s power network.
Mhlanga said the provincial government was particularly concerned about households resorting to potentially dangerous methods to keep warm, including illegal electricity connections.
“The provincial government is particularly concerned about the risks faced by households seeking alternative ways to keep warm during the cold weather,” he said.
Residents have been urged to exercise extreme caution when using heaters, braziers, paraffin stoves, candles, open fires and other heating or cooking devices.
Mhlanga warned against leaving such devices unattended, particularly while people are sleeping, and said they should be kept away from curtains, bedding, clothing and other flammable materials.
A rare winter scene in Braamfontein as light flakes fall across Johannesburg during one of the city’s coldest days in years. ❄️#ourcitynews #Joburg #snow pic.twitter.com/wHyEgCV5oZ
— Our City News (@OurCityNews) August 11, 2026
“The provincial government is particularly concerned about the risks faced by households seeking alternative ways to keep warm during the cold weather. Residents are strongly warned against illegal electricity connections, electricity theft and the vandalism of electrical infrastructure,” he said.
Motorists have also been advised to reduce their speed, maintain a safe following distance and use headlights when visibility is poor. They have been warned against attempting to cross flooded roads and bridges.
“Pedestrians should similarly avoid walking through fast-flowing water and flooded areas,” Mhlanga said.
JHB – #SNOW #Sleet https://t.co/nVUzhS4c7u
— TrafficSA (@TrafficSA) August 11, 2026
The Gauteng government said its disaster management and emergency response structures were monitoring the weather and coordinating with municipalities and other stakeholders to respond to incidents.
Residents have been urged to monitor official weather and emergency alerts and check on elderly people, children and other vulnerable members of their communities.
“The message from the Gauteng provincial government is clear: during these adverse weather conditions, safety must come first,” Mhlanga said.
“No effort to keep warm should put a life at risk.”
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
