Flooding: Alerts, safety steps and what to do now

Flooding can happen fast and hit hard. On this tag page we collect the latest flood-related news, weather warnings and practical advice from across Africa. You’ll find local alerts, coastal wave warnings, stories about damaged communities and clear steps you can take before, during and after rising water.

Quick actions: before and during a flood

Check official warnings first. If your area has a Yellow or higher weather warning, treat it seriously—stay off the coast and avoid low-lying roads. Move important documents, medicines and valuables to higher ground or an upper floor. If you can, switch off electricity and gas at the main switch only when it’s safe to do so.

When water starts rising, don’t wait. Leave if authorities order an evacuation. Don’t drive through floodwater — six inches can knock you off your feet and a foot can float many vehicles. If you’re trapped in a building, move to the highest safe point and signal for help; call emergency services only when you know your exact location.

After the flood: safety and recovery

Only return once officials say it’s safe. Watch for unstable structures, fallen power lines and contaminated water. Boil drinking water if the supply may be polluted. Photograph damage for insurance claims and keep receipts for any emergency expenses — they help with recovery funds later.

If you smell gas or see a cracked gas line, leave immediately and notify authorities. Wear gloves and boots when handling debris. For health concerns, seek medical advice quickly: floodwater can carry bacteria and cause infections or rashes.

Where to get reliable info: follow local meteorological services, municipal alerts and trusted news outlets. On Desert Rose Daily we highlight official warnings like coastal wave advisories and track how storms affect communities. Our coverage brings together weather updates, road closures and relief efforts so you can act on verified information.

Practical kit list: bottled water, non-perishable food, battery or crank radio, flashlight, spare batteries, first-aid kit, copies of IDs and insurance papers, phone charger, and emergency cash. If you have pets, include food and a carrier. Keep this kit ready in an accessible spot.

Community matters. Check on neighbours, especially the elderly or those with mobility issues. Local volunteers and shelters often need hands after floods — donating time, supplies or money helps speed recovery.

Want to stay prepared? Sign up for local alerts, map safe evacuation routes from your home and workplace, and review your insurance cover for flood damage. Small preparations cut stress and save lives.

On this tag page you’ll find the latest stories, from coastal wave warnings in the Western Cape to flood impacts in towns across the region. Bookmark this page for fast access to updates and practical advice when weather turns bad.

By Lesego Lehari, 1 May, 2025 / World News

Flood Emergency in Maiduguri: Mass Displacement and New Disease Fears After Alau Dam Collapse

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By Lesego Lehari, 13 Mar, 2025 / News

Extreme Weather Batters South Africa's Heartland with Tornadoes and Floods

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