With Gauteng experiencing some of its most intense and persistent rainfall in recent memory, the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is calling on motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads. Torrential downpours have already led to widespread flooding, submerged bridges, uprooted trees and increasingly hazardous driving conditions across the province.
The SA Weather Service has issued fresh storm warnings for Thursday and Friday, noting that this November ranks among the wettest in recent years. With the ground now deeply saturated, the risk of flash floods, unstable embankments and rapidly rising water levels continues to intensify.
Dewald Ranft, Chairman of MIWA, says the situation is deteriorating quickly. “Conditions across Gauteng are worsening by the day. We are seeing multiple reports of roads under water, damaged infrastructure and motorists becoming trapped,” he says. “Heavy rain reduces visibility dramatically, road surfaces become slick, and the danger of hydroplaning increases significantly. This is not the week to take chances on the road.”
Hazardous Roads, Hidden Dangers
Ranft notes that wet, debris-covered surfaces reduce traction, lengthen stopping distances and create prime conditions for skidding. The sustained rainfall has also overwhelmed storm-water systems, leaving many drains blocked and pushing additional water across roads already weakened by constant saturation. The result is a growing number of potholes, fallen trees and collapsing embankments.
One of the gravest risks remains driving through floodwaters. Despite repeated warnings, incidents continue to rise. Ranft points to a recent case in Pretoria, where a motorist narrowly escaped drowning after his bakkie plunged off the flooded Wonderboom bridge. “Just 30cm of fast-moving water can sweep a vehicle off the road or a bridge,” he warns. “You cannot see the condition of the road beneath the water, and many vehicles stall when water enters the engine. With bridges and river crossings already flooded in parts of Gauteng, we strongly urge motorists to turn around and take safer routes.”
MIWA’s Updated Safety Recommendations
Amid the worsening conditions, MIWA has refreshed its safety guidelines to help motorists navigate the week ahead as responsibly as possible.
• Avoid flood-prone routes – Follow updates from authorities and rely on navigation apps for road-closure alerts.
• Slow down and increase following distance – Stopping distances grow dramatically on wet surfaces.
• Use headlights on low beam – Improve visibility for yourself and others.
• Avoid sudden steering or braking – Smooth, deliberate movements reduce the risk of skidding.
• Beware of puddles – Standing water may hide potholes, sinkholes, branches or debris.
• Check your tyres – Adequate tread depth is vital for grip in wet weather.
• Inspect your wipers – Replace blades immediately if they streak, smear or skip.
• Watch for fallen trees and power lines – Report hazards and never approach a downed line.
If You Become Trapped in Rising Water
Ranft stresses that personal safety must come before vehicle recovery. “If your vehicle is caught in rapidly rising water, your focus must be on getting yourself to safety, not saving the vehicle,” he says. Motorists should unfasten their seatbelts, open a window as early as possible and exit the vehicle. If door pressure prevents an immediate escape, wait for the water level to equalise, then get out and move to higher ground without delay.
He adds a firm warning: “Never try to push your car out of deep water. Fast-moving floods are unpredictable and extremely dangerous.”
Prevention Remains the Best Defence
With further severe weather predicted across Gauteng, MIWA urges all motorists to remain vigilant. “Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy, keep headlights and wipers in good working order, and avoid all flooded roads. With conditions set to worsen, delaying travel where possible is the safest choice,” says Ranft.
For motorists needing professional checks, repairs or general maintenance during this exceptionally wet season, MIWA recommends visiting an accredited workshop to ensure vehicles are prepared for the ongoing downpours and the remainder of the rainy season.
