Cogta puts disaster teams on standby for Gauteng storms
The National Forecast Centre issued a level 4 impact-based warning for severe thunderstorms in most of Gauteng and the southwestern Mpumalanga Highveld. The warning runs from 1pm to midnight on Friday, and Cogta urged municipalities to activate contingency plans.
Cogta said the storms could bring strong winds, hail and heavy downpours. It said they may cause flooding, damage and local disruptions to power supply and communications. Spokesperson Theo Nkonki said the storms could damage or destroy infrastructure, settlements, property, vehicles, livelihoods and livestock.
The warning covers Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, Midvaal and Lesedi in Gauteng. In Mpumalanga it covers Emalahleni, Victor Khanye, Govan Mbeki, Lekwa, Dipaleseng and Pixley Ka Seme. One report counted 11 affected municipalities.
Cogta urged municipalities to keep disaster teams and emergency services on standby and to warn communities in good time. Nkonki advised people to stay indoors if possible and keep away from metal objects. He also told people not to shelter under trees or tall objects.
The National Disaster Management Centre will monitor the situation and support the response.
Key facts
- Who
- Theo Nkonki (Cogta spokesperson); Cogta (department of co-operative governance and traditional affairs, issued standby…); National Forecast Centre (issued the severe thunderstorm warning); National Disaster Management Centre (will continue monitoring the situation and support response efforts)
- What
- The department of co-operative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) told disaster teams and municipalities to prepare for severe thunderstorms expected from 1pm until just before midnight, with possible flooding, damage and displacement. It also gave safety advice to the public.
- When
- 6 November 2026
- Where
- Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Johannesburg
- Status
- Reported