Two individuals have tragically died due to severe flooding following heavy rainfall in Centurion, Tshwane, with local authorities bracing for more severe weather as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issues warnings across the region.
The two fatalities—a motorist and a motorcyclist—occurred during intense floods on Friday, December 20, 2024. Emergency communications informed the Tshwane Emergency Communication Centre (ECC) of the incidents at approximately 10:11 PM, noting the locations of Lenchen Street and West Streets, near SuperSport Park and the Hennops River.
Tshwane Emergency Services reported, "The ECC had already dispatched more resources to assist with these incidents resulting from the floods. ... tragically found both deceased." The rescues included firefighters from Erasmuskloof Fire Station and divers from both the South African Police Service and Gauteng Emergency Medical Services.
When emergency personnel arrived on the scene, they found both a car and motorcycle had been swept away by the river's powerful currents. Fortunately, the emergency teams were able to rescue individuals from other locations, including two who were stranded inside their car. The rescuers located another individual clinging to a lamp post overwhelmed by the rising waters of the Hennops River.
Environmental concerns related to the flooding have surfaced, as local activists with Hennops River Revival warn about chronic pollution and the neglect of river course maintenance contributing to the blockages and dangers posed by flooding. "We believe it’s going to rain like this until Christmas. It’s quite hectic," stated Tarryn Johnston from the organization. The condition of the Hennops River, where many natural and human-made pollutants aggravate the flow and drainage systems, has been increasingly troubling, resulting in damaged roads and more hazardous conditions.
Residents of Centurion understand seasonal rains can lead to flooding. Still, the recent incidents highlight the urgent need for improved management of the area's drainage systems. Johnston emphasized the threat posed should the Rietvlei Dam overflow because of its lack of sluice gates, which could lead to catastrophic flooding events if uncontrolled. "My worry is if Rietvlei Dam overflows, because it has no sluice gates, so it’s all or nothing," she said.
The emergency response extended later as divers pursued reports of another person who was unaccounted for. The individual is believed to have jumped or fallen intentionally, having run away from security guards. "We have got personnel on the ground searching for the person, they have got the assistance of the South African Police Service. They are all looking for the missing person," said Lindsay Mnguni, spokesperson for the City of Tshwane Emergency Services.
This search effort faced setbacks due to dangerous conditions created by continued rainfall. Emergency responders stated, "The only time we call off the search is when the situation becomes dangerous for the rescuers to continue."
With the imminent threat of additional storms and potential for more dramatic flooding, officials across multiple municipalities, including Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni, remain alert. The public is urged to exercise caution and adhere to local advisories.
The impact of the floods not only affects immediate safety but also hints at long-term environmental issues related to the Hennops River and its surrounding communities. Garbage accumulation and illegal waste disposal have exacerbated flooding, which local activists have battled against daily. Community members are encouraged to rally for change, pushing for action against illegal dumping before seasonal rains create more tragic situations.
The recent events serve as yet another reminder of the urgent need for community, governmental, and environmental efforts to address systemic issues contributing to frequent floods and fatalities.
