Heavy downpours on Thursday afternoon left parts of Alberton and Johannesburg South underwater, with residents describing the flooding as some of the worst in years. Torrential rains battered the area, submerging streets, damaging property, and disrupting traffic across several suburbs.
Videos shared by residents show water gushing through parking lots at Virgin Active and New Market Mall, while the Natalspruit River overflowed its banks, sending muddy streams through nearby neighbourhoods.
According to the Alberton Community Policing Forum (CPF), the hardest-hit areas include Ring Road West, Phantom Road in Raceview, Voortrekker Road off-ramp, Rugby Club circle in Verwoerdpark, and Hart Avenue in Randhart. Motorists were urged to stay off these routes and avoid any low-lying crossings.
“Please avoid flooded intersections and don’t attempt to drive through water — it’s deeper than it looks,” warned the CPF in a public alert.
Hospice Flooded, Patients Rescued
One of the worst-affected facilities was Stepping Stone Hospice, where floodwaters poured into the in-patient unit. Staff members used towels and blankets to block the incoming water while ensuring patients remained safe.
“What a storm! Our in-patient unit was flooded. Sr Margi (bless her soul) was administering medication barefoot,” said the hospice in a statement. “We are deeply grateful to our team for keeping patients safe.”
Photos shared online showed staff mopping flooded wards and rescuing medical equipment from the rising water.
Church Opens Doors as Emergency Shelter
As floodwaters rose overnight, the Dutch Reformed Church in South Crest opened its doors as a temporary emergency centre. Pastor Lorinda Schoonwinkel and Ward 106 Councillor Timothy Denny coordinated relief efforts alongside volunteers.
“We’re operating both as a command centre and a place of safety for affected families,” said Denny. “Anyone in need of assistance can come to the church or call Ashley at 081 389 9251.”
Residents from nearby suburbs arrived through the night seeking refuge, food, and dry clothing.
A History of Storm Damage
Alberton and Johannesburg South have experienced repeated flooding and hail damage in recent years. In 2019, a powerful hailstorm caused extensive property destruction, followed by another severe storm in February 2020 that flooded large parts of Brackendowns and South Crest.
Experts warn that urban expansion, poor drainage systems, and climate change are worsening the impact of seasonal storms.
AA Issues Safety Tips for Motorists
The Automobile Association (AA) urged motorists to drive cautiously in wet conditions. Key tips include:
Increase following distance to at least six seconds.
Reduce speed gradually — avoid sudden braking.
Keep headlights on low beam to improve visibility.
Avoid driving through flooded areas unless you can clearly see the road ahead.
Watch out for pedestrians who may be walking along the shoulder to avoid deep water.
Emergency teams and community volunteers continued cleanup efforts through Friday morning, with residents sharing reports of damaged fences, vehicles, and blocked drains.
“We’d like to thank everyone — from residents to first responders — who came together during this time of need,” said the Alberton CPF.