Nondumiso Mciteka, principal communications officer, Department of Water and Sanitation:
The recent floods across the country have showed us how unpredictable the weather can be. This has resulted in dams being full to overcapacity, structural damage and overflowing of water to roads, businesses and homes.
Let us just be reminded what floods are and can do.
Floods occur when water overflows on land that is normally dry. Generally, floods take hours or even days to develop. However, some develop quickly with little warning, as has recently been the case.
As the recent rainfall has filled the rivers and dams to the brim, the public is encouraged not to participate in activities that might endanger their life and livelihood, such as swimming in dams and crossing low-lying bridges.
Municipalities play a part in the upkeep of local stormwater drainage systems. This stormwater is directed by a pipe or surface channel to a point of discharge.
Be aware of flood warnings issued in your area by local radio stations and evacuate if requested to do so by authorities.
Residents are discouraged from constructing homes near river banks and dams, and below the flood line.
Water is precious and scarce. Let us save what we have, but be aware of its danger.
