Storms: Alerts, Safety Tips and What to Do Now
Storms can arrive with little warning and cause floods, power cuts and dangerous debris. When heavy rain, strong winds or lightning are forecast, quick preparation keeps you and your family safer. Use these straightforward steps to act now, stay informed and recover faster.
What counts as a storm? Thunderstorms, flash floods, hail, damaging winds and tropical cyclones all qualify. In many parts of Africa the rainy and cyclone seasons are predictable, but single severe storms can still pop up outside those months. Treat official warnings seriously and don’t wait to take action.
Simple things to do before a storm: fill clean containers with drinking water (aim for three days’ supply), charge phones and power banks, keep a torch and spare batteries handy, pack a small first-aid kit and any essential medicines, and stash some cash in case ATMs fail. Move outdoor furniture and loose items inside or strap them down. Clear gutters and drains where you can. If you have important documents, put copies in a waterproof bag.
When a storm is approaching
Listen to your national weather service and local emergency channels. If you get an evacuation order, leave early and follow the planned route. If staying at home, pick an interior room away from windows and glass doors. Unplug sensitive electronics to reduce lightning damage. Avoid using corded phones and don’t stand near windows during high winds. If flooding begins, move to higher ground and avoid basements or low-lying rooms.
During and after a storm
During the storm, keep checking trusted sources: official apps, national weather services like the South African Weather Service (SAWS), and local radio. Use battery radios if power goes out. After the storm, check for injuries and call emergency services if needed. Don’t touch downed power lines and stay well clear of them; even wet ground can conduct electricity.
Inspect your property from a safe distance. Photograph damage for insurance claims and report major risks like gas leaks to the relevant authorities. If your area flooded, assume the water is contaminated: use bottled water or boil tap water for at least one minute before drinking. Throw away food that soaked in floodwater.
Driving after storms is risky. Roads can hide washouts and debris. Never drive through standing or moving floodwater — just 15 cm of fast-moving water can sweep a car away. If your vehicle stalls in rising water, abandon it and move to higher ground.
Stay connected: sign up for mobile alerts, follow your national weather office on social media, and tune into local FM stations during outages. Community groups can share local conditions, but always verify evacuation orders with an official source.
Small habits make a big difference: keep your phone charged, top up your car fuel when a storm is forecast, and check on neighbours who may need help. Bookmark this storms tag on Africa Daily Dispatch for live updates, local reports and simple safety advice when severe weather hits.
Severe Weather Forces Mass Flight Cancellations at Barcelona Airport
A recent storm hit Barcelona, causing significant disruptions at El Prat airport with at least 50 flights being cancelled or delayed. The severe weather comes just days after deadly floods hit Valencia, claiming over 200 lives. Furthermore, flights were rerouted, and public transportation was affected, highlighting the widespread impact of the storm.